Understanding Best Foods Plant Based Mayonnaise
Best Foods, a Unilever brand also known as Hellmann's in some regions, released its plant-based mayonnaise to offer a vegan-friendly alternative to its popular egg-based product. The goal was to provide a product that mimics the creamy texture and tangy flavor of traditional mayonnaise, without using eggs or other animal-derived ingredients. For many, the brand's reputation for quality and flavor made its entry into the vegan market a welcome addition, and reviews suggest it has largely succeeded in its aim.
The Ingredients and Emulsifiers
Unlike traditional mayonnaise which uses egg yolks as an emulsifier to bind oil and water, Best Foods plant based mayonnaise relies on a carefully selected blend of ingredients to achieve a stable, creamy consistency. The main ingredients listed are:
- Canola Oil: The primary fat source, contributing to the smooth texture and flavor.
- Water: Provides the necessary liquid component for the emulsion.
- Modified Food Starch (Potato, Corn): Acts as the main emulsifier and stabilizer, preventing the oil and water from separating.
- Distilled Vinegar: Adds the familiar tangy flavor that is characteristic of mayonnaise.
- Sugar and Salt: Used for seasoning and to balance the flavor profile.
- Lemon Juice Concentrate: Further enhances the tanginess.
- Natural Flavor, Paprika Extract: Added for flavor and color.
One significant point of note is that Best Foods' version contains canola oil instead of the soybean oil found in many other mayonnaises, which appeals to some customers with legume sensitivities.
Taste, Texture, and Consumer Reviews
Best Foods plant based mayonnaise generally receives high marks for its taste and texture, with many reviewers struggling to tell the difference between it and the regular version. It has a thick, creamy consistency that works well for spreading on sandwiches, burgers, or mixing into salads. The flavor is described as tangy and rich, with some noting a slightly different consistency or a sharper flavor compared to the original, though these critiques are infrequent and often relate to specific formula changes over time. The product is well-regarded for its performance in various applications, from potato salad to dips, making it a versatile choice for vegan and non-vegan households.
How to Use Plant-Based Mayonnaise
Plant-based mayonnaise is incredibly versatile and can be used in any recipe that calls for traditional mayonnaise. Its applications are nearly endless and include:
- Sandwiches and Wraps: A classic use for any type of mayonnaise, it adds creaminess and flavor.
- Dressings and Dips: Perfect as a base for creamy dressings like ranch or chipotle, or for a simple dip.
- Salads: Ideal for binding ingredients in potato salad, coleslaw, or macaroni salad.
- Burgers and Fries: A tasty topping for veggie burgers or a dip for french fries.
- Baking: Can be used in vegan baking recipes to add moisture and richness.
Best Foods Plant Based vs. Other Vegan Mayos
To truly understand what is best foods plant based mayonnaise, it helps to compare it to some of the other popular vegan brands and even homemade versions. These alternatives often use different emulsifiers and oils, resulting in distinct flavor and texture profiles.
| Feature | Best Foods Plant Based | Follow Your Heart (Vegenaise) | Homemade Aquafaba Mayo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Key Emulsifier | Modified Food Starch | Pea Protein, Brown Rice Syrup | Aquafaba (chickpea brine) |
| Primary Oil | Canola Oil | Expeller-Pressed Canola Oil | Neutral-flavored oil (e.g., avocado, sunflower) |
| Flavor Profile | Very similar to traditional mayo; tangy and balanced. | Tangier and slightly sweeter; distinct vegan taste. | Highly customizable, can be as tangy or mellow as desired. |
| Texture | Thick, creamy, and consistent. | Smooth but can sometimes be looser than Best Foods. | Very thick and creamy, excellent emulsification. |
| Availability | Widely available in most major supermarkets. | Common in health food stores and larger retailers. | Requires making from scratch at home. |
| Cost | Generally affordable, competitive with regular mayo. | Can be more expensive per ounce. | Cost-effective if you cook with chickpeas regularly. |
Conclusion: Is Best Foods Plant Based Mayonnaise the Best?
For many consumers, Best Foods plant based mayonnaise offers the closest experience to traditional egg-based mayo, making it a top contender in the vegan market. Its reliable texture and flavor, combined with its widespread availability and reasonable price point, make it a solid choice for those transitioning to a plant-based diet or catering to guests with egg allergies. While other brands like Vegenaise offer their own unique tang and homemade options provide ultimate customization, Best Foods' version excels at providing a familiar, crowd-pleasing taste. The best option ultimately depends on personal preference and how the mayo will be used, but Best Foods is an easy and delicious entry point for anyone exploring vegan condiments. For more detailed reviews of various brands, consider consulting a dedicated taste-test review site like Vegan in the Freezer.
