• By Bornika Das
  • Fri, 04 Jul 2025 06:49 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND

Mayonnaise Health Risks: Mayonnaise is considered a kitchen staple for its rich flavour and creamy texture, which complements meals like salads, sandwiches and burgers. However, behind its tangy flavour and texture lies a major question - “Is mayonnaise healthy?” While it may seem to be a harmless condiment, it is also a complex one. The presence of high fat and calorie content can frequently cause health issues. Moreover, egg-based mayonnaise spoils easily and can cause foodborne diseases and thus needs to be stored properly. Even though mayonnaise is a popular food, certain circumstances can lead to possible health hazards connected to its consumption.

In recent times, mayonnaise has been more closely examined, especially its role in high-fat diets and its hidden additives in commercial versions. Mayonnaise is often linked to increasing cholesterol levels and adding empty calories to meals, doing more harm to the body than good. However, it is to be noted that homemade mayonnaise offers a healthier profile with heart-friendly oils and minimal preservatives. Here’s everything you need to know about whether mayonnaise is healthy for the body or not.

What Is Mayonnaise Made Of?

Mayonnaise is typically made of oil, egg yolks, vinegar or lemon juice and seasonings like mustard. Several ingredients are added to create its creamy texture.

Oil: Neutral tasting like canola or soybean oil

Egg Yolks: For structure and richness

Acid: Vinegar or lemon juice for stability and flavour

Salt And Seasonings: For taste

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Mayonnaise Health Benefits

Healthy Fats: Mayonnaise made with olive or avocado oil contains unsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health.

Vitamin E: Mayonnaise is a source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells and supports immune function.

Absorbs Nutrients: The presence of fats in mayonnaise also helps the body absorb vitamins A, D, E and K from other foods.

Customisable: Mayonnaise is customisable to suit individual dietary preferences, such as low-fat, vegan and light.

Mayonnaise Ingredients

Homemade Mayonnaise Are Made With Healthier Ingredients (Image Credits: Canva)

Mayonnaise Health Risks

Food Poisoning: As mayonnaise is made of raw eggs, it may contain Salmonella. If stored and handled in an improper manner, it can increase the risk of foodborne illness.

High Calories And Fat: Mayonnaise is rich in high fat and calories. Its rich taste leads to overeating, which can further lead to weight gain.

ALSO READ: 5 Healthy Alternatives Of Mayonnaise To Enjoy Same Taste And Texture

Processed Ingredients: Most of the store-bought mayonnaise contains refined oils and other additives, which might not be ideal for a healthy diet.

Cholesterol: Mayonnaise made with egg yolks contains cholesterol and consuming it in excess might cause some health risks, like heart disease and others.

Bacterial Growth: The presence of high-fat content and raw eggs in mayonnaise can create an environment for bacterial growth if not stored properly.