What Makes Mayo Non-Vegan (and How Brands Fake the Egg)
Traditional mayo relies on egg yolks as an emulsifier — the ingredient that lets oil and vinegar bind into that thick, creamy texture instead of separating. Vegan mayo swaps the yolk for a different emulsifier, most commonly:
- Aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) — mimics egg proteins remarkably well
- Pea protein or soy protein isolate — common in mass-market brands like Just Egg's mayo line
- Modified food starch — used in budget brands, often results in a thinner texture
Worth noting: a few "vegan-style" mayos on grocery shelves are only egg-free, not fully vegan — some still use dairy-derived additives or are processed on shared lines with animal products. Always check the label for a third-party vegan certification if cross-contamination matters to you.
The 8 Best Vegan Mayo Brands, Ranked
1. Just Mayo (by Eat Just)
The category pioneer, and still one of the closest matches to traditional mayo in both texture and tang. Made with pea protein. Holds up well in cold dishes like pasta salad without weeping liquid.
2. Vegenaise (Follow Your Heart)
The brand most vegans grew up on. Slightly more tart than Just Mayo, with a thicker, almost restaurant-quality consistency. The Grapeseed Oil version is milder for people sensitive to strong oil flavors.
3. Hellmann's Vegan
Yes, the mainstream brand makes one. It's soy-based and deliberately formulated to taste close to the original Hellmann's — a smart pick for mixed households where only some people are plant-based.
4. Sir Kensington's Fabanaise
Made with aquafaba instead of soy or pea protein, which gives it a lighter, airier texture. Great for aioli-style dips but slightly less rich for straight sandwich spreading.
5. Chosen Foods Avocado Oil Vegan Mayo
Uses avocado oil as the base fat instead of canola or soybean oil. Noticeably richer mouthfeel, and a solid option if you're avoiding seed oils.
6. Primal Kitchen Vegan Mayo
Avocado oil-based like Chosen Foods, but with a more pronounced lemon tang. Popular in paleo-adjacent circles that overlap with plant-based eating.
7. Trader Joe's Vegan Mayo
Budget-friendly and surprisingly close in flavor to the name brands, though the texture is slightly looser. Best for dressings and sauces rather than eating straight.
8. 365 by Whole Foods Vegan Mayo
The most affordable widely available option. Gets the job done for everyday sandwiches but lacks the richness of the pricier picks — a fine starter mayo, not a forever favorite.
How to Use Vegan Mayo Beyond Sandwiches
- Aioli base: Blend with roasted garlic, lemon juice, and smoked paprika for a five-minute dip
- Vegan ranch: Whisk with plant milk, dried dill, garlic powder, and onion powder
- Binding agent: Use in place of egg to bind veggie burger patties or chickpea "tuna" salad
- Baking swap: A spoonful of vegan mayo in cake batter adds moisture without needing extra oil
