What Is The Best Tasting Mayonnaise Around Today?
I was looking through my latest addition of Fine Cooking, one of my favorite cooking magazines, and saw an article on "Rating Mayonnaise." I'm not sure what your favorite mayonnaise is, but it's most likely the one you grew up with, and you aren't going to change it no matter what their tasting results show.
Mayonnaise is a combination of oil, egg yolks, lemon juice or vinegar, and various seasonings, depending on the maker. Oil and vinegar do not normally like to be combined, but an emulsifying process can stabilize the two with the help of egg yolks.
Mayonnaise was invented by the French chef of the Duc de Richelieu in 1756 for a celebration victory feast. The chef named the new sauce "Mahonnaise" to show tribute to his boss.
Making homemade mayonnaise is easy, and the flavor is better than anything you can purchase in a jar or plastic squirt containers. However, it doesn't have the shelf life of the commercial brands. What is the shelf life of a jar of mayonnaise in the refrigerator?
What Is Mayonnaise?
Mayonnaise is a creamy and versatile condiment with a rich history that spans continents and cultures. Its roots can be traced back to the Mediterranean region, where olive oil was plentiful. The name "mayonnaise" is believed to have originated from the French word "moyeu," meaning yolk of egg, which is a primary ingredient in this delightful sauce.
The basic components of mayonnaise are simple: egg yolks, oil, vinegar or lemon juice, and seasonings. However, the magic lies in the emulsification process, where the oil is slowly incorporated into the egg yolks and other ingredients to create a thick and creamy texture. This process transforms these humble ingredients into a luxurious and velvety spread that enhances the flavor of countless dishes.
Mayonnaise has become a staple in cuisines worldwide, adapting to local tastes and ingredients. In Japan, it's used in sushi rolls and as a topping for salads and sandwiches. In Latin America, it's a key component in sauces like salsa golf and is a popular accompaniment to grilled meats and seafood. In the United States, mayonnaise is often synonymous with sandwiches, potato salads, and dips, adding richness and moisture to these dishes.
Beyond its culinary uses, mayonnaise has also found its way into the realm of beauty and home remedies. Its moisturizing properties make it a popular ingredient in DIY hair masks and face masks. Additionally, it's been touted as a remedy for removing water stains from wood and as a lubricant for stubborn zippers.
Despite its simple ingredients, mayonnaise captivates taste buds and inspires culinary creativity. Whether you're spreading it on a sandwich, using it as a base for a salad dressing, or incorporating it into a recipe, mayonnaise adds a creamy richness that elevates any dish it touches.
So the next time you reach for that jar of mayo, remember the centuries of culinary tradition that have made it a beloved staple in kitchens worldwide.
What Color Is Mayonnaise?
Mayonnaise is typically creamy white or pale yellow. The exact shade can vary depending on the ingredients used, such as the type of oil and the color of the egg yolks.
Commercially produced mayonnaise often has a consistent creamy white hue due to the refined ingredients used in its production.
Differences Between Homemade and Commercial Mayonnaise
Homemade mayonnaise and commercial mayonnaise can differ in several ways, including ingredients, texture, flavor, and shelf life. Here are some key differences between the two:
Ingredients
Homemade mayonnaise: Often made with fresh ingredients like egg yolks, oil, vinegar or lemon juice, and seasonings. Some recipes may also include mustard or other flavorings.
Commercial mayonnaise: Typically made with a combination of refined oils, egg yolks or egg yolks powder, vinegar or lemon juice, and stabilizers or preservatives. Commercial brands may also use pasteurized eggs to ensure food safety.
Texture
Homemade mayonnaise: Can have a lighter and more delicate texture, with variations in consistency depending on the recipe and technique used.
Commercial mayonnaise: Often has a thicker and creamier texture due to the use of stabilizers and emulsifiers. The texture is usually more consistent across different brands and batches.
Flavor
Homemade mayonnaise: Offers a fresher and more vibrant flavor, with the ability to customize the taste by adjusting the amount and type of seasonings used.
Commercial mayonnaise has a more uniform and processed flavor profile, which may be less nuanced than homemade versions. Depending on the brand, some people find commercial mayo slightly sweeter or tangier.
Shelf life
Homemade mayonnaise: Due to the use of fresh ingredients, homemade mayonnaise typically has a shorter shelf life than commercial varieties. It is best consumed within a few days and should be stored in the refrigerator.
Commercial mayonnaise: Has a longer shelf life thanks to the use of preservatives and stabilizers. Unopened jars can be stored at room temperature, while opened jars should be refrigerated and consumed within a few months.
Cost
Homemade mayonnaise: It can be more cost-effective if you already have the basic ingredients on hand. However, it may require more time and effort to prepare.
Commercial mayonnaise is generally more convenient but expensive, especially for premium or organic varieties.
While both homemade and commercial mayonnaise have their merits, the choice between them often comes down to personal preference, convenience, and dietary considerations. Homemade mayo allows for greater customization and fresher flavors, while commercial mayo offers convenience and a longer shelf life.
What's the Story of Miracle Whip?
As a kid, we served Hellman's, but my neighborhood friend's mom served Miracle Whip on our bologna sandwiches. I loved it but could never get my mom to buy it. Let's look at it more closely.
Miracle Whip is a popular condiment that has been a staple in many American households since its introduction in 1933. The Kraft Foods Company created it as an alternative to traditional mayonnaise, and it has developed a devoted following over the years.
The story of Miracle Whip began during the Great Depression when Kraft Foods sought to create a more affordable alternative to mayonnaise. The result was Miracle Whip, a tangy, sweet, and creamy dressing quickly gaining popularity for its unique flavor.
Unlike traditional mayonnaise, which is made primarily with oil, egg yolks, and vinegar or lemon juice, Miracle Whip contains additional ingredients such as sugar, spices, and stabilizers. These added ingredients give Miracle Whip its distinct taste and texture, setting it apart from traditional mayonnaise.
Miracle Whip's marketing campaigns have played a significant role in its success over the years. It has been promoted as a versatile condiment that can be used in various dishes, from sandwiches and salads to dips and dressings. Its tangy and slightly sweet flavor has made it a favorite among many consumers, especially those looking for a bolder alternative to mayonnaise.
Despite its popularity, Miracle Whip has also been debated among condiment enthusiasts. Some people love its unique flavor and versatility, while others prefer the more traditional taste of mayonnaise.
In recent years, Kraft Foods has introduced various versions of Miracle Whip, including reduced-fat and olive oil-based varieties, to cater to changing consumer preferences and dietary needs.
Other Uses For Mayo
Mayonnaise is known for its versatility, and people have devised unconventional ways to use it. Here are a few crazy ways mayonnaise is used but I have no idea if any of them actually work:
- Hair Conditioner: Some people swear by mayonnaise as a DIY hair treatment. They apply it to their hair, let it sit for a while, and then rinse it to reveal softer and shinier locks. The oils and proteins in mayonnaise are believed to nourish and hydrate the hair.
- Sticker Remover: Mayonnaise might be your secret weapon if you’ve ever struggled to remove stubborn stickers or labels from surfaces. Applying a layer of mayo to the sticker and letting it sit can help loosen the adhesive, making it easier to peel off.
- Moisturizer: While it might sound strange, some people use mayonnaise as a moisturizer for dry skin, particularly on their hands and feet. The oils in mayonnaise can help hydrate and soften the skin, leaving it feeling smoother.
- Plant Shine: If your houseplants look dull, you can use mayonnaise to give their leaves a glossy shine. Wipe a small amount of mayo on the leaves with a soft cloth and buff them to a shine.
- CD/DVD Cleaner: Believe it or not, mayonnaise can also be used to clean and polish CDs and DVDs. Applying a thin layer of mayo to the disc and wiping it off with a soft cloth can help remove scratches and restore its shine.
The Mayo Taste-off Outcome
What really surprised me was the outcome of the Fine Cooking blind tasting of 6 popular jarred mayonnaises. My favorite Hellman's would have won, hands down, but it came in second to Kraft Real Mayonnaise.
Both had mild, clean flavors and a good balance between salt and vinegar, but the tasters thought the latter "lacked depth and was a bit monotone." Coming in third, fourth, fifth, and sixth were Cains All Natural, Spectrum Organic, Whole Foods 365, and Gefen Kosher, respectively.
Although I grew up on Hellman's for sandwiches and tuna salads, I will purchase a small jar of Kraft's Real Mayo for a comparison.
Duke
Did the blind taste test involve sampling the product straight from the jar? If so, that doesn't seem very fair, because in a recipte it all depends on how flavors meld together.
There's something to be said for the pure and simple (yet deliciously rich) taste of Helmann's. The funny thing is, I grew up on Miracle Whip, not even realizing it was technically salad dressing and not "mayo" (because that's what we called it).
My first few experiences with the real thing were not so great. But now that my palate has matured and I have experimented a bit more, I have found that there are certain uses/recipes that require one or the other, and the wrong one can be an utter disappointment.
Really simple Examples (according to my own taste preferences):
-Chicken sandwich: Miracle Whip
-Roast beef sandwich: Hellmans
-Chicken/tuna/potato salad can go either way, unless it contains curry, in which case the true egg taste of Hellman's becomes a necessity.
To me, Kraft's version is sort of like real mayo for diehard Miracle Whip lovers. It still has a sort of sweetness or tang that doesn't sit right if I'm expecting real mayo. On the other hand, If I were cooking for a pot-luck, maybe the Kraft Mayo could provide a middle-ground for both sides?
Angela
Dukes is the only mayonaise worth considering. It's head and shoulders above the rest. I feel sorry for anyone who grew up any where it can't be found. I especially feel sorry for anyone who thought Mirical Whip was mayonaise. That's the kind of stories that keeps me up at night. What kind of parents would do that to a kid? Dukes is great in potato salad, chicken salad, on sandwhiches and it makes the best Deviled Eggs. There is only one...Dukes!
Mike J
Dukes is my fave too; Miracle Whip is awful stuff.
Debbie
I agree with Angela. I decided to pick up a jar just the other day, and I was really impressed! I said to myself..."Why have you been using he other brands when this was here all the time?" Probably because I was brought up on the others...I say, "be brave and pick up a jar if you've never tried it"...you'll sure to be converted.
Louise
agree with Angela and Debbie and my mom always used Miracle Whip and I hate the stuff
Linda in Tennessee
my husband like miracle whip....and i like mayonnaise.......I do like Dukes better than Hellmans....it was only by chance i bought it one day. It must have been on sale ! and not all stores sell it. the flavor is just so much better.
Linda
Elise
Duke's is a southern mayo. If you've never had the opportunity to try it, you have missed the best. In a pinch, if we can't find Duke's, like some places in Tenn., we will "make do" with Hellman's
Joe
What about the other famous southern mayonnaise, Blue Plate? Often called 'the legendary spread of the south'. Upheld by many southerners since 1929, and that includes me, I've come to like it even more than Duke's. Both are very good, with a nice even flavor but the Blue Plate has a little more sweetness than the Duke's. Importantly, it's not too sweet.
Pam
ABSOLUTELY
Ruth di Giovanni
I live in Montreal, Quebec, Canada - is Dukes sold anywhere at all in Canada?
Jim
I was raised on Miracle Whip and we also called it Mayo. At the family gatherings my mother was always asked to bring the potato salad. She made it with Miracle Whip and hard boiled eggs, celery, sweet pickles and paprika. Everyone would ask her for the recipe and she'd tell them, but she always said Mayonaisse because everyone always told her they didn't like that awful Miracle Whip! Meanwhile they never figured it out, kept trying to copy her Potato Salad and always ate all of hers!!
As a kid I never knew why I didn't like anything made with Mayo in restaurants! Now I still use Miracle Whip for sandwiches and potato salad, macaroni salad, etc. And love homemade mayo for sauces etc. Like garlic aioli etc.
Steve R.
Jim, I grew up the same way - the oldest of 8 and I think Mom bought it because it was cheaper than mayo. I did like the tang it gave to macaroni and potato salads. However, I just read that it has high fructose corn syrup and MSG and, therefore, will never but it again!
Pat
My favourite is Heinz Salad Cream English Dressing. I grew up with that in England and have eaten it for over 60 years!
My wife hates it because it because she says it tastes like mustard, her favourite being Litehouse Ranch Dressing which I would't give you a penny for. Thought about making my own, but laziness has precluded this, make good Tartare Sauce though.
Pam
I moved back to Detroit from Greeenville S. C. in 1987 after living down south for 17 years. What I loved about the south was the food! Dukes is the only mayo I'll use. I order some every year and its shipped here to MIchigan. I put it on everything.
Gary Ingram
Where can I find Dukes Mayonnaise in Houston Texas?
Tony
You may not be able to find "Duke's" in Texas, but you might be able to pick up a jar of "Blue Plate" Mayo, and I think it's just as good. Duke's is from Carolina, Blue Plate is from Louisiana, and since TX is close to LA...
Donna Patterson
Blue Plate is a favorite among chefs. It does not use the egg whites which is a problem with most of the major brands. Extra ingredients must be used to counter the taste of egg whites in nearly every commercial brand. I will use Duke's, but only if Blue Plate is not available.
Pam
Absolutely
tom
dukes in my opinion is a little to vinegary. helmans, and kraft, are better over all they have more egg yolk, and a better flaver. of course u like dukes, its from the south! what a coincidence!
Christina
Kraft Real Mayo is 'IMO' a tad tastier than Hellmans. I went years without even giving Kraft a chance (they do make Miracle Whip after all...), but I accidentally bought one of those 'flip top' tubs while in a rush, thinking it was Hellmans in a new jar... I didn't even notice it was Kraft when I made sandwiches that night - but I knew something was different the moment I tasted it. I'll always love Hellmans, but my boyfriend and I both like Kraft just a lil' bit more... If you can find it - Kewpie Mayonnaise is Great too! It's a Japanese Mayo and while the bottle turns me off somewhat (I think it looks gross... the baby on the front creeps me out) I heard so many good things about it that I had to give it a try. It's made with a higher yolk content, rice vinegar, and 'gasp' MSG (that's what makes it so tasty I'm certain). Not a good fit for 'all' American foods, but in some, it's definitely a better flavor/mayo choice. This stuff makes the BEST deviled eggs, egg salad and tuna fish sandwiches.
Marlene
Blue Plate.
Pam
Here too!
scott
dukes, is in my opinion not really a good mayo, although some love it. kraft ot helmans, ate tops. we didnt miss anything if we grew up without tasing dukes. sorry, the south just isnt the best place for food, in my opinion. i live in nc, and the hot dogs, pizza, and other foods just arent that good. problem is a lot of people in the south never tasted the right way to eat certain foods.
scott
kraft or helmans is a lot better than dukes, sorry i know the south loves their food, but problem is with some food, if you are used to something that isnt made right, you wont like the real thing.
james
look at the comparison, dukes didnt even make the list, kraft won.
Lee
Did the taste change with the new label of Kraft Mayo? It seems to have a sweet taste.
kathleen mccann
I am so glad i checked out this site!. We have been buying hoagies {PHILA, of course} at the same deli for about 5 yrs. now. Suddenly the hoagies tasted different. We couldn't figure it out until it hit me that it was the mayo. They used to use Hellmans but changed to Kraft. My son had them show him what they are using and they were just going to open a huge jar of Krafts.The Kraft has changed for some dumb reason.IT is now sweet...almost as sweet as Miracle Whip, which I hate. We are Hellman folks and used to use Kraft if there was a good sale and coupons on it. They both were very close in taste. Will not buy Kraft and will get the hoagies without mayo and put my Hellmans on at home! .
mugsy
yes i say it changed with the new label definitely sweeter and flavor is different... bummer. it was nice being able to count on the consistent flavor and quality for all these years but not any more apparently.
colleen marshall
Yes, the taste changed with the new label Kraft Mayo, and it isn't as good. Also notice that the cholesterol content went up. Personally, I don't think the new label is very attractive, so all around, as far as I'm concerned this was not a good move on Kraft's part.
Irene
Here is the reply I received from Kraft when I e-mailed them questioning if their mayo formula had changed:
"The formulation of KRAFT Mayo Real Mayonnaise has indeed changed and I'm sorry you were disappointed with your most recent purchase.
Your experience is important to us. I'm sending you reimbursement to replace this product, via first class mail, which you should receive within 7-10 business days.
Our staff works very hard to provide the best tasting and satisfying products to the preferences of most consumers. Your opinion about the product is important to us as well and I will share your comments with our product development staff."
I threw the coupon away and responded with my opinion of the altered mayo (threw it in the trash after the first slimy taste), they responded:
Thank you again for taking the time to share your thoughts.
In early 2008 we reformulated the Kraft Real MAYO line.
We increased the amount of egg yolks and sugar, and added Mustard Oil to the formula. These changes were made to create a mayonnaise with a fuller, more balanced flavor.
Please take note that due to the change in formula, the daily value for cholesterol increased from 1% to 2%.
I’m sorry to let you know that I won't be able to provide you with the exact amount or percentages of ingredients in our products because this information is proprietary.
But I'd like to make sure you know that all of our ingredients are listed in order of predominance by weight on our Nutrition Facts panel."
I switched to Dukes and told them so. Remember the consumer chaos when Coke changed their original formula? Do you suppose that they will eventually introduce KRAFT REAL MAYO CLASSIC?
kathleen mccann
Good for you! i would love for them to go back to the original taste. Why fix it if it ain't broke?
Big Mike
When we discovered the radical change in the formulation of Kraft Mayo all hell broke loose. My daughter made a large pasta salad that required more than 1/2 a quart which ruined the salad. I came in the kitchen and was dishing up some of the salad when my daughter warned me "you aren't going to like it" I said what do you mean, she said go ahead try it, there is something wrong with that Mayo. I checked the date on the container, it was not outdated, I sampled some right out of the jar, there is something definitely wrong. I went to the phone, called Kraft Foods Inc, got to the right division and to the lady something was wrong, perhaps some miracle whip got mixed in by mistake or whatever. I gave her the UPC code and she fessed up that they made a change in the formulation. I indignantly replied in an elevated voice "YOU DID WHAT? NO NO, I don't think so, You have no right to change it, I've been using Kraft MAyo for over 45 years, it is an AMerican iCON, just like baseball, hotdogs, apple pie, coke. Is there something wrong with you people, don't you know if something is not broke, you don't fix it? Big Big Huge MIstake. Her reply, well we wanted a more robust taste so we added some mustard and a little more sugar. I said a little more, hell it's a lot, it tastes like some put a teaspoon of sugar on my tomato mayo sandwich. If you want a more robust version, fine go ahead, put a label on it and put it along side the original classic. and by the way did you screw around with the Krakt ranch dressing and dip? she fessed up.
My kids won't use it. Incidently, the Mayo label change preceded the actual formulation change. The American public NEEDS to ban together in PROTEST and put pressure on Kraft and force them to wake up. If they want to change products they ought to poll the consumer.
Cam
Big Mike thank you. I was reading your rant and just loved it. It made me smile and laugh and giggle. Yes, how dare they change their formula. I like Hampton Creek mayo but because it is vegan it is expensive but it is the closest to the original Kraft Mayo. I just grabbed a bottle of Calder's Mayo at the dollar store because I was there. Big Mistake. It has no sugar listed on the label yet it is sweet... Yuck!! I wonder if Hellman's changed their recipe too. Will have to check it out. I can't see buying vegan mayo since I am no longer vegan too expensive. I haven't seen Dukc's in SoCal so I guess that isn't an option for my neck of the woods.
sandra
Mike, that is so funny. I have never heard of the Brands I am reading here. In Washington state we grew up on Best Foods mayo. I got the impression from mom that Miracle Whip was bought by "poor people." (I was a kid then) But I am now 69 and my whole family has never changed from Best Foods. Until now. They changed the recipe! I have written 2 emails to them. I was told Hellman's and Best Foods are the same? We cannot do Miracle Whip. Too sweet and vinegary. I also bought the Calder's at the dollar store. I like the small bottle. At the moment it tastes better than the Best Foods. It is a thinner consistency though. I cannot understand why they would change the recipe. I taste undertones of fish in the Best Foods now. I am not a fish flavor person.
Big Mike
Incidently, I did switch t0 Hellman's and I was lucky enough to find a gallon of Kraft Mayo at Walmart with new label but still had old formula.
I should call Kraft back to let them know I switched. They never offered to send me a refund or coupons.
I few days later I was on the phone with my brother Pat, a life long loyal Kraft Mayo consumer and began to relay the story, he started to laugh and said we went through the same thing here about a month ago where I also felt compelled to contact Kraft and read them the riot act. Spread the word, get others to contact Kraft requesting to return the classic to the American Public.
snoballPete
Kraft REAL Mayo USED to be right up there with Baseball, Apple Pie and Chevrolet.......Now it Just SUCKS! I've got one word for you Kraft geniuses..."Hellmans."
Adios Olde Favorite
snoballPete
michele
Kraft REAL? Even Coke didn't have the audacity to change flavors without warning everybody. I surely would NOT have bought this jar of REAL if I had known it would be sweeter. It tastes more like Miracle Whip, which I hate. I agree with Big Mike. They should have warned us. Why call it real and then change it? What is it now, "UNREAL?"
Tammie
OMG I got a new jar and it was awful! I called and told them that I would have to go to another REAL mayo cause that was a version of miracle whip and I HATE MW so I am off to the store to find a REAL mayo!! Good Luck to me LOL
Kathleen Boca Raton
If no one has noticed, Helman's Real has changed their flavor (ingredients) I have it dirctly from Hellman's. Now it just doesn't taste the same as two yrs. ago and I seem to use more (how clever of Hellman's) and am still disappointed. I'm looking for the real Hellman's taste of years ago. Anyone???
Sally Neugent
In last 2 years I have made my standard chicken salad 3x, the last time being yesterday. I always use Hellman's, even though yesterday reaffirmed something just ain't right! There is this hard to describe new, icky taste to my ol' tried + true chicken salad recipe...it was there last time + time before, as well...I just made excuses then, but now I know: on sandwiches and in smaller amounts, Hellman's Real is fine, but when it calls for a cup or more in a recipe, beware.
The Reluctant Gourmet
Hmmmm, sounds like you are on to something. Anyone else have these same observations. Thanks for letting us know Sally.
Diane Vickery
Hellman's has changed a couple times. The first time, there were many complaints, including my own. Their reply indicated they were going for mass appeal, not loyalty. They changed it again several years later, but the taste is nowhere near the Hellman's I grew up with. So far, Kirkland is the best I've found. I hope they have not changed recently.
Marsha
I just have to say as in Highlander, there can be only one and that one is Blue Plate. I grew up in Louisiana and I have it shipped wherever I am. When I was in culinary school my Mom shipped it to me along with Community Coffee. The taste of Blue Plate is different than any other mayo and much better than anything any chef could make.
Donna Patterson
Marsha,
I am with you. It is called "real mayonnaise" because the recipe does not require doctoring at the plant. Funny, many of my friends who refuse to try it rave about my deviled eggs. Blue Plate and Eggland's Best produce wonderful results every time!
Rebecca Shannon
Kraft has changed its formula and is much sweeter than it used to be. The information on the taste test is outdated and should be removed.
Konnya
Forget the Helmans, Dukes, & Kraft.
Blue Plate is the best hands down. I grow up in GA and it was readily available in the South. it. It is creamy, slightly tart & best tasting mayo--nothing compares. It makes the best potato salad, deviled eggs, or just plain tomato sandwich. I live in Texas now and go to the closest Louisiana town to buy it or order it on line. Love, Love my Blue Plate
Pam
Agreed! Blue Plate hands down
bobby g
In our family we don't say "pass the mayo", we simply say "pass the Duke's". It is synonymous with mayonnaise. It is that good! You can order it online, with free shipping!!! Only within the lower 48, though. Sorry....
Bobby, I hear from many home cooks that Duke's is tops although I have never seen it sold here in the Philadelphia area. Maybe I have to look harder. RG
Lloyd
Miracle Whip, though a mayo-like product and not true mayo) is easily top of the heap for sandwiches. Hellman's is the best of the rest that I've tried. Haven't tried the regional ones listed. But Kraft is absolutely horrible. It moistens the bread, but that's it.
J Barrow
I think all the mayos have changed. I grew up on Cains and have had it mailed to me since it is not sold outside New England and I noticed that it also taste different. Bummed!
Disko Don
I don't feel qualified to judge between Dukes and Hellman's since I haven't done a side-by-side comparison. But they're both good. I found my way to this site because of Kraft's recent change. I wanted to see if there were others that noticed the nastiness. To me, it's not the new sweetness; it's more a rank flavor common in products that use soybean oil. Kraft's new formula is thinner (presumably in some attempt to be healthier) and really rank tasting. I'm ok with Hellman's or Duke's, but I'm done with Kraft unless they wise up like Coke did with this "New Formula" nonsense! Disko Don
Sandy
The taste has definitely changed; unless I got a batch that was different somehow. 2/17/2010. That does not please me! Have been eating and buy it all my life. If the next jar tastes the same as this one, I'm shopping for a new brand.
CC
I grew up in the north with Hellmanns and Miracle Whip, and continued to use them after moving to Florida over 20 years ago. One day I noticed that Blue Plate was about $2 cheaper than the others, and decided to try it. What a wonderful difference! I've been hooked on that for the last 3 years. Yesterday our grocer had a BOGO on Dukes, so I tried that. I wasn't impressed. It was a little bit bitter, and it did nothing for a sandwich. Sticking with Blue Plate from now on.
Hey CC, thanks for your input. I remember my neighbor used to serve us bologna sandwiches on Wonder Bread and Miracle Whip when I was a kid. - RG
Jen
After a huge breakdown when Kraft changed their Mayo, I switched to Hellman's after being a life-long Kraft devotee. Just the other day though I saw a new kraft mayo jar- round again instead of square- so I picked it up. It doesn't taste like it's back to the original- but it seems not to be that nasty stuff from the square jar container- has anyone else noticed another change? I was thinking that maybe so many people complained that they were forced to do something???
jackie
Wow! No one has even mentioned Hollywood Mayo, but it's the best and healthier (imho) than most others. I have tried almost all of the others mentioned, but Hollywood is far and away the best tasting - not sweet, just the right flavor for sandwiches and salads.
Hi Jackie, thanks for the update. I can't say I've even ever seen it before. - RG
William
Jen, you're right! I think they may have gone back to the original formula. I for one raised heck with Kraft about the change. Maybe enough complaints came in that they actually listened. The consistency is just like the original, and it's got the lemony taste. I've emailed them to find out. Will post when I get the answer. Pretty sure it's the original though.
kathleen mccann
Sorry to say but you probably know by now (2015)that Kraft still taste sweet .If i wanted sweet,i would just by Kraft MW?
Anne
Dipped a knife into Hellman's and then Duke's. The Duke's is more pungent and eggy. Very good and right when I was thinking..."This is better," an aftertaste kicked in..strange. So I'd probably choose Hellman's but they are very close in taste...until the aftertaste...which may not be apparent on food. I tasted some right out of the jar...
Like anything..it's just personal taste!
Could not agree with you more Anne - RG
jeffrey
For the Duke's fans in eastern PA, Redner's Markets carries both the regular and the light versions. I still like Hellman's, but I like Duke's too. I've always thought Kraft was a little gross.
Marina Welham
Kraft mayo and related products started downhill when they switched to the much cheaper soy oil (which is also now used to heat our furnaces!!). Watch out for their other products too like lemon pie filling and jello. Have a suspicion these come from a foreign country now. There is absolutely no taste in those products any more. Just a waste of money and the cook's time.
Hi Marina, thank you for sharing your opinion. As you can see, there are lot's of people who agree with you. - RG
L Stagg
Hi all, I grew up eating Blue Plate in Louisiana and never thought I would find better. I moved to South Carolina in 1998 and my wife brought home Dukes from the store on our first shopping trip because no Blue Plate. I have to say my taste buds vote for Dukes. It is true Mayo, and as far as I know it hasn't changed over the years. I am sure Blue Plate is still just as good as ever but I am now a Dukes fan.
Hi L Stagg, thanks for sharing. - RG
Jeff W.
Like you, I grew up in Louisiana, and didn't know there were other brands of mayo worth eating out there besides Blue Plate. I still love it, but really like Duke's as well, and my wife swears by it. I do believe that you can't legally call a Po' Boy a Po' Boy unless you use Blue Plate mayo on Leidenheimer's french bread "dressed and sloppy" along with all the other ingredients you chose in NOLA!
Elisabeth Gambrell
I thought at first KRAFT had gone back to the original too - then I noticed that only the first 3 or so days of a new container tasted right - seems they are still using cheap oil that spoils quickly.
Marina Welham
I think I solved my Mayonnaise problem. I bought a bottle of Hellmann's. It's not made with cheap soy oil which is my first priority. Trouble is it doesn't have much of a taste. I fixed that by adding a little white sugar and cider vinegar and it almost tastes like the original Kraft mayo. To quarter cup Mayo I added teaspoon of white sugar and 2 teaspoons of cider vinegar. Almost perfect!
Hi Marina, great solution. I'm sure many who read this will give it a try. - RG
Marty
I grew up eating Hellmann's Mayo, not know anything else. I moved in with my best friend's family in 1994, and discovered the fabulous taste of Blue Plate Mayo! I also tried Duke's, but i'll stick the tried and true mayo. It make the best Potato salad, chicken salad, deviled eggs,and more. I also love a home grown tomato sandwich with lots of Blue Plate! Yuuum!!! There's nothing better.
Hi Marty, thanks for sharing - RG
Clayton
Funny that Spectrum Organic was mentioned! I just recently bought a jar, and the first taste was out of this world! The vinegar is stronger, and there's a hint of olive oil - fantastic!
Hi Clayton, thanks for posting. - RG
BONNY
Food is genetically modified, soy based, yeast and MSG enhanced, artificially flavored and colored, homogenized, pasteurized, shipped around the world chemically preserved months too late for real freshness , engineered and marketed for profit's sake. Order 3 or 4 hens for REAL eggs, look for the best oils, the freshest herbs and spices you can afford. Make your own Mayo. Treat your self and the people you care for to the BEST. Bring your food closer to home and you will know real food.
Hi Bonny, I like your idea to make your own homemade mayonnaise although I'm not sure most folks can order and raise chickens for their eggs. I completely agree we should bring food closer to home. It takes a little more effort to find and support local producers but we have found the food to have a lot more flavor. - RG
Mike
Horrible, Bland Blue Plate is no longer made in Louisiana. The parent company moved all production to Knoxville Tennessee years ago. I would not touch Blue Plate if paid. I have been in the plant and it is too manual intensive ******************* Yuck! By the way, Blue Plate's signature flavor allegedly came from the ***** wood storage containers for vinegar years ago. Stick with Kraft you can't go wrong.
Hi Mike, sorry I had to edit some of your comments because I think they were over the top and I have no idea if you really were in the plant and I can't accept "allegedly" made comments but we got the message you don't like the product. - RG
Big John G
It's Dukes or nothing. Just that simple !!!
Linda Rogers
Wow!! I am and have been a Kraft lover forever and really surprised about the results!!
Michele Walton
I recently moved to Ms., and discovered Blue Plate mayo. The best as far as I am concerned. You can only get it in the south. I put it on everystuff I eat. Even a dollop on top of my vegetables. It's amazing!!
Ruth Rhodes
Was brought up on Hellman’s and a few months back went to Aldi's and picked up a jar of Burman's Mayo just to try it. It taste exactly like Hellman's and is great in recipes, burgers etc. At $2.09 for a 32 oz jar, it can't be beat.
Tom Jensen
Once I realized how easy it is to make, I find it hard to eat it any other way. I voted for Hellmann's but I will try Kraft next time I need a back up.
Tom Kernan
As a youngster I always thought Miracle Whip was wonderful (sweet) but came to like Hellmans the best with Kraft as a close second. Both I think are not as good as they once were and the new Kraft is clearly second rate. Actually I now think Aldi's Burmans is more of the real thing and a great deal now at $1.99 per jar. Dollar Tree stores now sell very small Duke's jars for a buck. By the way. I tried Dukes for the first time yesterday and liked the texture but thought it a bit bland (which might be good in some dishes), but also noticed an aftertaste.
Tom
Dukes Mayonnaise by the C.F. Sauer Company Richmond Va is the best Mayo on the market and that is that.
Majonez
Wow! You guys don't know how REAL mayoneise should taste... What about almost any mayoneise from Europe? ... Up to 10% of egg yolks, color comes from the eggs, creamy consistency, eggs are the second ingredient, vinegar is not overpowering , opened jar should be eaten within 2 weeks...
Hellmans even makes pretty good version of European mayo , and its called "Hellmans majonez babuni" - " Hellmans grandma's mayoneise"
Jim
Wow - I have to try that.
Holly
I grew up with Miracle Whip, but did know the difference between salad dressing and mayo, and couldn't stand mayo until I was over 40 then suddenly may was better for some things. My (previously my mother's) potato salad was always sought after for potlucks and my husband who grew up with mayo potato salad and swore he didn't eat MW routinely asked for my potato salad. He said that things like sour cream and Miracle Whip that he didn't like, did not count as long as he didn't see them go in. I'm about to try Atkins and am trying to pick a mayo, thanks to everyone for all the helpful taste opinions, I'm in the north, so I guess it will be Hellman's.
Ivan
the mayo is Heinz..! it’s a food service mayo so it can’t be bought in stores. Sysco’s is extra thick and good as well.
kathleen mccann
You can buy it in Acme and wal-mart.
Peter
I have tried Kraft, Hellman, and Heinz; Heinz taste better and it is in store now. I have not try Blue plate or Duke, but will when able to get them. Everyone has their own taste so it is different for everyone. Heinz's products are quality and taste great. Its ketchup, 57 sauce, mayonaise...etc, they must engineers worked to produce the best taste of its products.
Jim
I recently compared Kraft and Heinz. The taste is different...but I couldn't decide which tasted better (both are equally good, in my opinion). However, the consistency of the Heinz was much "fuller". The Kraft is...not runny, exactly, but more liquid, wetter, while the Heinz has more body, more firmness - and the more firmness makes it easier to get out of the jar and easier to spread evenly and it soaks into the bread less.
GreatCornholio
Dukes, Dukes, Dukes. Go to Trader Joe's. Get grass fed angus beef patties. Thaw. Grill them outside for about 3 minutes a side. Fix up your burger however you like, but please USE DUKES. Best burger. Tastes like they did 30 years ago. Same with tuna salad. Make it with Dukes.
EdjuCat
For the love of God, people, it's Hellmann's, with two n's! Okay, sorry about that. I do tend to over-react when things are misspelled. Anyway... I wanted to thank the folks who mentioned Burman's mayonnaise that can be bought at Aldi. I've always wanted to try it but I'm kind of a mayo snob and didn't want to buy it until I heard some reviews.
I work at a plant that manufactures private-label salad dressings and mayonnaise. One brand we make is Kirkland's Signature Mayonnaise, which is sold at Costco. It is excellent and was rated "just as good as" Hellmann's in Consumer Reports magazine.
Miracle Whip, in my opinion, shouldn't even be part of the equation because it is not mayonnaise, it's salad dressing. I don't mind MW but I much, much prefer mayonnaise.
Personally, the think the difference between the top brands of mayo is negligible, especially if you're going to mix it with something else, like in tuna salad.
Nini
Mayonnaise snob here. I know I hate Miracle Whip. I've always loved Hellmann's but BUT BUT... it seems thinner than usual and I've recently tried another brand... Sauer's. I don't think mayo is supposed to have SUGAR in it but these both do. Sauer's has paprika. I actually really liked it. Had to get in on this "debate"!!! It's tomato sandwich time here in Mis'ippi
Theda
It's always been tomato and Miracle Whip for me. I love it. However Kraft has made some unwelcome changes to some of their recipes so who knows, maybe one day I will be changing.
Theda
I have always loved Miracle Whip and I do know that it is not mayonnaise but it tasted better on my sandwiches and in potato salad than anythng else. Then my husband who is a Hellmann's guy got me using half mayo and half miracle whip in my recipes and I really like it. I started liking "mayo" when I found it tasted better in tuna salad.
I have noticed a difference in taste and texture in Miracle Whip this last year and have noticed a difference in Hellmann's texture but so far not the taste. I'll have to do a closer taste test.
We have tried Duke's and just don't like it as well as Hellmann's.
Angelita
I was born in FL and lived the last 13 years in NC. Just moved to Michigan and for the first time tried Hellmanns. Now Hellman's was different. Duke's, the only brand I have used, is tangier. And tonight I just tried Miracle Whip which I will never make the mistake of doing again. Y'all complaining about formula changes should consider that Duke's has never changed its formula.
Also the secret to Southern cooking is in the tang. Usually from vinegar or lemon juice. Duke's is by far the best with no added sugar ( hello diabetics and sugar counters). I will be ordering Duke's by the case for as long as I live up North. Other brands just don't compare.
Jessica
The reason you like Burman's mayonnaise is because it IS Hellmann's mayonnaise. Aldi brands in similar packaging as name brands ARE those name brands.
Melissa
I'm glad to hear of other brands of mayo to try I've used blue plate for a couple of years but here lately it has been awful to use in potato salad or deviled eggs, its like using plain oil and very hard to mix up, Will not be using blue plate ever again guess I'll give kraft a try
Tina
I prefer Hellmann's over Kraft BY FAR!! I grew up on Kraft real mayo and I agree with others above it has changed. I have been a Hellmann's fan for most of my adult life. Grabbed Kraft when it was on sale. I will never do it again. It tastes like Miracle Whip to me and I don't like it. I like REAL mayo.
Drazen
People of US and Canada. Please, go to your local European grocery shop, ask for Thomy mayo, ok?
After you try Thomy, you will stop talking about Hellman's and other tasteless drywall mud.
Same with chocolate, please ask for Milka, any flavor.
Thanks ?
Ana
I second that. None of aforementioned ones are nothing compared to Thomy. FYI it's available on Amazon. Pricey though.
Scott
Blue Plate, Blue Plate, Blue Plate. Nothing is better. Make blue plate hamburgers and you will thank me.
G. Stephen Jones
Then I will give it a try Scott.
M. M. McIntosh
Just found this site today, after spending hours learning about Kraft becoming GMO. Besides a horrible taste and a product that pours like soup we are now ingesting harmful things into our bodies, and these consumer product people do not have to inform us of the changes, much less what the changes really are. The government does not even require a label on these products alerting us to the fact that a product has become GMO, nor possible health issues that may result from this status. Someone said last week that the people do not have a right to privacy. Deduction: these are not people, because none of this information was or is being made available to us. It is, in fact, privately held information. Question: What do they want?
roy stone
Obviously "Blue Plate" was somehow overlooked. But each has its best use on and in different food choices.
Lynn
You bet! New Orleans pride and joy! For a roast beef po' boy, there's none better. Blue Plate is my favorite Mayo for so many recipes, especially sandwiches and potato salad.
Jeff W.
On Leidenheimer's baguettes at that, doesn't get more NOLA than that!
Mayo Lover
Hellmann's Extra Heavy Mayonnaise is the best you can get outside of making your own mayo. Just about every restaurant in the USA uses Hellmann's Extra Heavy ... and therein lies the problem ... in can only be purchased in one gallon jars.
G. Stephen Jones
Hmmm. Didn't know that.
Beth Hilton
I've never heard before of Hellmann's "Extra Heavy" Mayo, but I'm so glad to learn about it! Thank you!
I'm going to try to find that product. I don't know if I can clear the space in the fridge for a one gallon jar, but I'm already mentally re-arranging the refrigerator... 🙂
Jim Mayo
I grew up on Hellmans. The best ever until they changed the recipe. I found Calders Gourmet Mayonaise at a local Dollar Tree. Tastes just like the old Hellmans to me. Now I hope they dont change it.