Is mayonnaise high or low in potassium? A nutritional diet breakdown

October 15, 2025 •

4 min read

A single tablespoon of regular mayonnaise typically contains only a few milligrams of potassium. This makes answering the question, 'Is mayonnaise high or low in potassium?' quite straightforward, especially for those managing specific dietary needs. Mayonnaise is consistently a low-potassium condiment, though other nutritional factors bear closer inspection.

Quick Summary

Mayonnaise is considered a low-potassium condiment, containing a negligible amount per serving, which makes it a suitable option for those on low-potassium diets. However, its high fat and sodium content should be monitored, especially for individuals managing conditions like kidney disease.

Key Points

Low in Potassium: Regular mayonnaise contains very little potassium, making it suitable for low-potassium dietary plans.
High in Fat and Sodium: The primary nutritional concerns with mayonnaise are its high fat and sodium content, not its potassium.
Safe for Kidney Diets: It is generally considered a safe condiment for those with chronic kidney disease who need to limit potassium, but moderation is advised.
Read Labels Carefully: Light, fat-free, and some vegan mayonnaises can have increased sodium or other additives, so checking the nutritional label is crucial.
Consider Healthier Swaps: Alternatives like plain Greek yogurt or mustard can be used for a lower-fat, lower-sodium profile.
Compare Condiments: Mayonnaise is typically lower in potassium than many other common condiments, such as ketchup or soy sauce.

The Nutritional Profile of Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is an emulsion of oil, egg yolk, and an acid like vinegar or lemon juice. While the ingredients might sound simple, the final product's nutritional profile is more complex. The potassium content, derived mainly from the egg yolk, is very low, making it a safe choice for those needing to watch their potassium intake.

According to the USDA, a standard tablespoon of mayonnaise contains just a few milligrams of potassium, which is a tiny fraction of the average person's daily recommended intake. However, this is not the whole story. The more significant nutritional considerations with mayonnaise are its high calorie, fat, and sodium content.

The Trade-off: Fat, Sodium, and Calories

For many on modified diets, particularly those concerned with heart health or fluid retention (like those with kidney disease), the fat and sodium in mayonnaise are more pressing issues than the potassium. A single tablespoon of regular mayonnaise is very high in fat and calories. The sodium levels can also be substantial, depending on the brand. For example, the American Association of Heart Failure Nurses (AAHFN) lists regular mayonnaise as having 80 mg of potassium per tablespoon, but some brands can have much less, and the sodium is often the bigger concern.

Mayonnaise and Low-Potassium Diets

For individuals on a low-potassium diet, such as those with certain kidney conditions, mayonnaise is a useful condiment. Because it is so low in potassium, it can add flavor and calories to meals without contributing significantly to daily potassium levels. This is especially helpful for patients who need to restrict protein and might be at risk for malnutrition if they lose too much fat. However, it is crucial to read labels, as some processed mayo-like spreads may contain additives or higher sodium levels that could be problematic. The best advice is to stick to real, full-fat mayonnaise and check the nutrition facts for sodium and additives.

Comparing Mayonnaise with Other Common Condiments

Understanding how mayonnaise compares to other common condiments helps put its nutritional profile into perspective. The following table compares regular mayonnaise with some other popular sauces based on data from various sources.


Condiment	Serving Size	Approximate Potassium (mg)	Approximate Sodium (mg)
Mayonnaise (Regular)	1 tbsp	3-20	80-100
Mayonnaise (Light)	1 tbsp	2-120	15-140
Ketchup	1 tbsp	178	Varies widely, often high
Mustard (Yellow)	1 tsp	56	Varies widely, often high
Soy Sauce	1 tbsp	395 (per 100g)	4402 (per 100g)
Hummus	2 tbsp	Varies, can be high	Varies, can be high

As the table shows, mayonnaise generally contains less potassium than many other common options, though its sodium can still be a factor. The potassium content in light and fat-free versions can be inconsistent, highlighting the need to check labels. Hummus, for instance, is often considered a healthy alternative but is higher in potassium, making it less suitable for a restricted diet.

Healthier Alternatives to Mayonnaise

For those seeking alternatives to manage fat, calories, or even just for variety, several healthier choices exist. These options can still provide the creamy texture you desire in sandwiches or salads, often with a better overall nutritional profile.

Greek Yogurt (Plain, Non-Fat): This is a great substitute for a thick, creamy consistency. It is high in protein and can bind ingredients just like mayonnaise. For a flavor boost, add a pinch of salt-free seasonings.
Avocado: Mashed avocado is a popular choice for its creamy texture and healthy fats. However, be mindful that avocado is high in potassium, so it is not a suitable replacement for those on a strict low-potassium diet.
Mustard: While not a direct substitute for creaminess, various mustards can add a flavorful kick to sandwiches and dressings. Many mustard varieties are low in both calories and potassium.
Oil and Vinegar: A classic dressing combination, oil and vinegar can be a low-calorie alternative, though it won't replicate mayonnaise's binding properties.
Store-Bought Vegan Mayo: Plant-based mayos are increasingly common. These often use alternative oils and binders. Always check labels for sodium and additives.

The Role of Potassium in Your Diet

Potassium is a vital electrolyte that helps maintain normal fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. The average adult needs a significant amount of potassium daily, often cited around 4700 mg. However, for individuals with compromised kidney function, the kidneys may struggle to filter out excess potassium, leading to dangerous levels in the blood. This is why a low-potassium diet is sometimes necessary.

High-potassium foods typically include fruits like bananas and oranges, vegetables like potatoes and spinach, and beans. Because mayonnaise is not made primarily from these high-potassium sources, its potassium content remains low. In this context, mayonnaise can be a valuable tool to add flavor to a restricted diet without exceeding potassium limits.

Conclusion

In summary, regular mayonnaise is definitively a low-potassium condiment, making it a safe inclusion for individuals managing their potassium intake, such as those with kidney disease. However, the nutritional context is key. Its high fat and sodium content require mindful consumption. Consumers on low-potassium diets should choose full-fat, real mayonnaise and scrutinize labels on light or fat-free varieties for hidden sodium or phosphorus additives. For those looking to reduce fat and calories further, options like plain Greek yogurt or mustard serve as excellent alternatives, though those on specific diets should verify the potassium content of any replacement. Consulting a dietitian is the best way to tailor dietary choices to individual health needs.

Sources:

Frequently Asked Questions

No, mayonnaise is very low in potassium. A typical serving contains only a few milligrams, making it a low-potassium food.

Yes, light or fat-free versions are also low in potassium. However, they may contain higher amounts of sodium or other additives, so it is important to check the nutrition label.

For individuals with kidney disease who need to watch their potassium intake, mayonnaise is generally a safe choice due to its low potassium content. The main concern is its high sodium and fat, so moderation is key.

Mayonnaise is typically lower in potassium than many other popular condiments, such as ketchup, which can contain significantly more potassium per serving.

Homemade mayonnaise's potassium content is still very low, derived mainly from the small amount of egg yolk used. The overall potassium will remain low compared to high-potassium foods.

Plain, non-fat Greek yogurt is an excellent low-potassium alternative that provides a similar creamy texture with higher protein content and lower fat. Mustard is another low-potassium option for flavor.

While avocado provides a creamy texture and healthy fats, it is high in potassium and not a suitable substitute for those on a low-potassium diet.

For individuals with specific health concerns like high blood pressure or kidney disease, excess sodium can lead to fluid retention and other cardiovascular problems. Mayonnaise's sodium content is often much more significant than its potassium content.