What’s the difference between mayo and mayonnaise?

Answered by Willie Powers

Mayo and mayonnaise are essentially the same thing. Mayo is actually just a shortened nickname for mayonnaise. They are both used to refer to a creamy condiment that is commonly used in sandwiches, salads, and as a base for various sauces and dressings.

The main difference between mayo and mayonnaise lies in the ingredients used to make them. Traditional mayonnaise is made by emulsifying vegetable oil and egg yolks with vinegar or lemon juice. The egg yolk acts as an emulsifier, helping to bind the oil and water-based ingredients together and create a smooth and creamy texture.

On the other hand, Hampton Creek’s “Just Mayo” products are made without the use of eggs. Instead, they use a combination of plant-based ingredients to achieve a similar texture and flavor. These plant-based ingredients typically include a blend of oils, such as canola or soybean oil, along with vinegar, lemon juice, and other flavorings.

The use of plant-based ingredients in “Just Mayo” makes it suitable for those who follow a vegan or egg-free diet. It also makes it a potential option for individuals with egg allergies or dietary restrictions. However, it’s important to note that some traditional mayonnaise brands also offer egg-free or vegan versions, so “Just Mayo” is not the only option available in the market.

In terms of taste and texture, traditional mayo and “Just Mayo” can be quite similar. Both have a creamy and tangy flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes. However, some people may notice a slight difference in taste due to the absence of eggs in “Just Mayo”. Additionally, the texture of “Just Mayo” may be slightly different from traditional mayo, but it is still smooth and spreadable.

It’s worth mentioning that the use of the term “mayo” by Hampton Creek for their eggless product was initially met with some controversy. The FDA, which has a standard of identity for mayonnaise that includes the use of eggs, argued that the term “mayo” should only be used for products that meet this standard. However, after discussions and revisions, Hampton Creek was allowed to keep the name “Just Mayo” on their product, as long as they made it clear that it was an egg-free alternative.

Mayo and mayonnaise are essentially the same thing, with mayo being a shortened nickname for mayonnaise. The main difference lies in the ingredients used, with traditional mayo containing eggs and “Just Mayo” being eggless and made from plant-based ingredients. Both options offer a creamy and tangy flavor, but some slight differences may be noticed in taste and texture.