Why store-bought mayonnaise is not carnivore-friendly
The fundamental principle of the carnivore diet is the exclusion of all plant-based foods, and unfortunately, this is where store-bought mayonnaise runs into trouble. While a key ingredient is eggs—which are animal-based and fully compliant—most commercial brands contain vegetable or seed oils derived from plants, along with other non-carnivore ingredients.
The problem with seed oils
Commercial mayonnaise is typically made with seed oils such as soybean, canola, or safflower oil. These processed, plant-based oils are strictly forbidden on the carnivore diet for several reasons. Many carnivore advocates claim these industrial seed oils are a major source of inflammation and health problems. They are high in omega-6 fatty acids, and the industrial extraction processes can involve toxic chemicals. Followers of the carnivore diet aim to eliminate such ingredients to reduce inflammation and promote overall health.
Other non-compliant ingredients
Beyond the oil, other common ingredients in store-bought mayonnaise are also non-compliant with a strict carnivore approach. These include:
- Sugar: Many brands add sugar to balance the flavor, which is a definite no on a zero-carb diet.
- Vinegar and lemon juice: As plant-based ingredients, these are technically not allowed on the most restrictive versions of the diet. However, some less-strict carnivore adherents will use small, negligible amounts for flavor, often calling it a "carnivore-friendlier" version.
- Spices: Depending on the brand and level of strictness, any spices or seasonings added might also be derived from plants and thus not permitted.
The good news: making your own carnivore-approved mayonnaise
The solution for those on the carnivore diet who crave the creamy texture of mayonnaise is to make a homemade version using only animal-based ingredients. This allows for full control over what goes into your food, ensuring it remains compliant with your dietary rules.
Approved ingredients for homemade mayonnaise
Creating your own mayonnaise is simple and requires only a few key animal-based ingredients:
- Animal Fats: This is the crucial substitution. Instead of vegetable or seed oils, use melted animal fats like beef tallow, lard, or bacon grease. Duck fat is another excellent option that provides a neutral flavor.
- Eggs: Pasture-raised eggs are a staple of the carnivore diet and form the creamy base of the emulsion.
- Salt: Salt is a compliant seasoning used for flavor.
- Optional (for less strict versions): A small amount of apple cider vinegar or mustard can be used by those who include minor, non-compliant ingredients for flavor, though a pure carnivore version would omit these.
A comparison of store-bought vs. carnivore mayonnaise
To highlight the key differences, here's a side-by-side comparison of a typical store-bought mayonnaise and a homemade carnivore-compliant version.
| Feature | Store-Bought Mayonnaise | Homemade Carnivore Mayonnaise |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Source | Vegetable or seed oils (soybean, canola) | Animal fats (tallow, lard, bacon grease, ghee) |
| Carbohydrates | Contains added sugars or sweeteners | Zero-carb, no added sugars |
| Flavoring | Often contains non-compliant ingredients like lemon juice and sugar | Flavored primarily by the animal fat and salt |
| Additives | Often includes emulsifiers, preservatives, and stabilizers | Contains only whole-food, animal-based ingredients |
| Compliance | Non-compliant with strict carnivore rules | Fully compliant with strict carnivore rules |
Recipe for homemade carnivore mayonnaise
Here is a simple and quick recipe for a delicious, carnivore-compliant mayonnaise:
- Ingredients: 1 large egg (at room temperature), ½ cup melted animal fat (tallow, lard, or ghee, warm but not hot), ¼ tsp sea salt.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the egg and salt in a tall container or jar, sized for an immersion blender.
- Emulsify: Place the immersion blender head at the bottom of the container, over the egg yolk. Blend on low speed until the egg starts to emulsify.
- Slowly Add Fat: While blending, slowly drizzle in the melted animal fat. The mixture will thicken and turn into a creamy mayonnaise.
- Store: Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate. The mayonnaise will firm up as it cools.
Versatility and usage
This homemade carnivore mayonnaise is incredibly versatile and can be used in numerous ways to add flavor and fat to your meals. Use it as a base for egg salad or tuna salad, as a creamy dip for chicken wings, or as a rich topping for steak or burgers. For those who follow a slightly less strict version of the diet, you can add a small amount of compliant seasonings to your finished mayo, such as a dash of mustard powder or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Conclusion
In short, while conventional store-bought mayonnaise is not allowed on a carnivore diet due to its vegetable oils and other plant-based ingredients, a simple and delicious alternative can be made at home. By swapping out seed oils for animal fats, followers can enjoy the creamy condiment they love without compromising their dietary principles. With a few simple steps, homemade carnivore mayonnaise can become a rich and flavorful staple in an all-animal eating plan.
