The Whole30 Rules for Mayonnaise
The Whole30 program emphasizes eating whole, unprocessed foods and eliminating sugar, grains, legumes, dairy, and additives for 30 days. This means that while mayonnaise itself is not off-limits, the ingredients used to make it must adhere to the program's rules. Traditional mayonnaise brands commonly contain ingredients that are not compliant, which is why simply grabbing any jar off the shelf is a surefire way to break the rules.
Compliant ingredients typically include:
- Avocado oil
- Light-tasting olive oil
- Coconut oil
- Cage-free eggs
- Lemon juice or vinegar
- Mustard (without sugar)
- Salt and spices
Non-compliant ingredients to look out for:
- Added sugar in any form, including cane sugar or corn syrup
- Processed seed oils, such as soy oil, canola oil, and regular sunflower or safflower oil
- Artificial additives and preservatives
Approved Store-Bought Whole30 Mayo Brands
Thankfully, several brands have developed products specifically to meet Whole30's strict standards. The most common feature among these compliant brands is the use of avocado oil as a base, which is permitted on the program and offers a neutral flavor profile.
- Primal Kitchen Avocado Oil Mayo: One of the most recognized and widely available Whole30 Approved® brands. Primal Kitchen offers a range of flavors, all made with avocado oil and organic, cage-free eggs, and free from sugar, gluten, soy, or canola oil.
- Chosen Foods Avocado Oil Mayo: This brand offers a 100% avocado oil-based mayo that is gluten-free, dairy-free, and Whole30 compliant. Many users note that its flavor is very similar to traditional mayonnaise.
- Sir Kensington's Avocado Oil Mayo: Sir Kensington's offers an avocado oil-based variety that is certified gluten-free and Non-GMO Project Verified. Always check the specific product label, as the brand also produces non-compliant versions.
- 365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Mayonnaise: The organic version sold at Whole Foods is another option, though it is crucial to read the label carefully. Historically, some versions have contained canola oil, but specific organic products may be compliant; look for explicit mention of Whole30 compliance.
- Tessemae's: The brand offers a range of dressings and mayos, with some specifically labeled as Whole30 compliant, though availability may vary.
Comparison of Popular Mayonnaise Brands
To highlight the differences between compliant and non-compliant options, here is a comparison of some popular mayonnaise brands:
| Brand | Primary Oil | Added Sugar | Whole30 Compliant? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primal Kitchen | Avocado Oil | No | Yes |
| Chosen Foods | Avocado Oil | No | Yes |
| Hellmann's/Best Foods | Soybean Oil | Yes | No |
| Sir Kensington's (Avocado Oil) | Avocado Oil | No | Yes |
| Kraft | Soybean Oil, Canola Oil | Yes | No |
| 365 Organic (check label) | Canola Oil (Historically) | No (usually) | Check Label |
DIY Whole30 Mayo: A Simple Recipe
For those who prefer a homemade option or want to control every ingredient, making your own mayonnaise is simple with an immersion blender. Not only is it cost-effective, but it also ensures compliance.
Ingredients:
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
- 1 cup light olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp mustard powder or Dijon mustard (sugar-free)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the egg, lemon juice, mustard, and salt into a wide-mouth jar that fits the head of your immersion blender.
- Pour the oil on top of the other ingredients and let it settle for a minute or two.
- Place the immersion blender on the very bottom of the jar, covering the egg yolk. Turn the blender on high and blend for 10-15 seconds without moving it, until a creamy white emulsion forms at the bottom.
- Slowly lift the blender up and down to incorporate the rest of the oil.
- Continue blending until a thick, creamy texture is achieved. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
How to Use Compliant Mayo
Once you have your approved mayo, there's no need to miss out on creamy dishes. You can use it as a direct substitute in many recipes:
- Egg Salad and Chicken Salad: Create classic, protein-packed salads by mixing your compliant mayo with cooked protein, onions, and celery.
- Creamy Dressings: Use it as a base for ranch or other creamy salad dressings.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve it as a dip for roasted vegetables or a topping for fish tacos.
- Binder for Meat: Use it to bind ingredients in meatballs or meatloaf.
Conclusion
Finding a Whole30 compliant mayonnaise brand is simple once you know what ingredients to avoid. By opting for brands like Primal Kitchen or Chosen Foods, or by making your own with avocado or light olive oil, you can enjoy the creamy condiment without derailing your 30-day program. Always remember to check the label for hidden sugars and non-compliant oils, or follow a simple DIY recipe for complete control over your ingredients. For more details on program rules, consult the official guide from the Whole30 program.
