Hellmann's Mayonnaise — ENGINEERED
Munch or Dump rates Hellmann's Mayonnaise by Hellmann's ENGINEERED — score 30/90.
This is 78% refined rapeseed oil emulsified with egg, then tuned with added sugar, vague 'flavourings', and a synthetic chelator (EDTA). It's a lab-built condiment, not real food.
Why this verdict
- 78% refined rapeseed oil makes this pure fat and calories, about 100 cal per tablespoon
- Added sugar in a savory condiment with no nutritional reason to be there
- Calcium disodium EDTA is a synthetic chelator added to keep the oil from going rancid
- Vague 'flavourings' hide what's actually being added for taste
- Rated NOVA 4 ultra-processed
Ingredients (12)
- Rapeseed oil (78%) (moderate) — Refined seed oil dominating the product; heart-neutral fats but extremely calorie-dense and the reason mayo is so energy-heavy.
- egg (safe) — Genuine brioche ingredient; adds structure and richness.
- Egg yolk (7.9%) (safe) — Emulsifier and source of fat and some nutrients; a normal, recognizable ingredient.
- Water (safe) — Used as a basic ingredient in bread.
- Spirit Vinegar (safe) — Adds tang and helps preserve; negligible health impact.
- Sugar (moderate) — Added for sweetness, can contribute to calorie content.
- Salt (moderate) — Used in moderation, might exceed necessary amount.
- lemon juice concentrate (safe) — Concentrated lemon juice for acidity and flavor.
- Flavourings (moderate) — Undisclosed added flavor compounds engineered to mimic BBQ ribs.
- Antioxidant (calcium disodium EDTA) (moderate) — Synthetic chelating agent used to preserve color and freshness; considered safe by regulators but is a lab additive that contradicts the 'no preservatives / natural' claim.
- Paprika Extract (moderate) — Added colour/flavor to enhance the BBQ appearance.
- Sunflower Oil (moderate) — Refined seed oil; fine in the modest amounts used here.
Healthier alternatives
- Chosen Foods Classic Avocado Oil Mayo
- MAYO Real Mayonnaise made with Avocado Oil
- Publix Real Mayonnaise
- Chosen Foods Classic Mayo
- Central Market Private Reserve Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil