Verified by Edna Skopljak MD
Edna Skopljak is a medical doctor and an editor at BJBMS medical journal. She graduated from the University of Sarajevo School of Science and Technology.
While pregnant, women carefully consider whether or not they want to consume mayonnaise. Some health professionals say it is safe to eat mayo during pregnancy, while others advise against it. So what’s a mom-to-be to do? Here is some information on the safety of eating mayo while pregnant and tips on making your healthy version at home.
Can you eat mayo while pregnant?
Yes, it is safe to eat mayo while pregnant as it is made with pasteurized eggs and doesn’t contain any raw eggs or unpasteurized milk. Many commercial mayonnaise brands are usually made with pasteurized eggs and don’t contain any natural ingredients that could be a potential source of bacterial contamination.
Mayonnaise contains good nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, which can be beneficial during pregnancy. It can also be a good energy source when you’re feeling low. However, it should be eaten to a moderate degree because it does contain saturated fat and calories. If you have any concerns about consuming mayo while pregnant, it is best to ask your doctor or midwife before eating it.
Can I eat chipotle mayo while pregnant?
Chipotle mayo can add delicious extra flavor to sandwiches, salads, or wraps during pregnancy. Chipotle mayonnaise is a spicy mayonnaise that contains chipotle peppers. As with regular mayonnaise, it is best to ensure the chipotle mayo you purchase is made with pasteurized eggs and has no raw ingredients. To prevent potentially harmful bacteria from developing, store it in the refrigerator and consume it within the expiration date.
Can I eat different brands of mayo while pregnant?
Yes, you can eat different brands of mayonnaise while pregnant. Brands such as Hellman’s, Heinz, and Kraft all use pasteurized eggs in their mayonnaise.
However, it is best to read the ingredients list and ensure that all the ingredients are safe for pregnancy. Also, double-check that the eggs used in the mayonnaise are pasteurized, as this will reduce your risk of bacterial contamination. If a particular brand does not list pasteurized eggs in its ingredients, then it is best to avoid eating them while pregnant.
How do I make my homemade mayonnaise?
Making your mayo at home is always the safest option when pregnant. To make homemade mayonnaise:
Use a pasteurized egg or egg substitute instead of raw eggs. You can add other ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar to give it extra flavor.
Whisk all your ingredients together until they are thick and creamy. If needed, you can also add a bit of olive oil or vegetable oil to adjust the consistency.
Keep your mayo fresh by storing it in a sealable container and refrigerating it until you’re ready to use it.
Conclusion
Homemade mayonnaise is always the safest option when pregnant, as you can control all the ingredients that go into it. It’s also a great way to add extra flavor to your meals. It is important to bear in mind that mayo is very high in cholesterol and calories. Therefore, it is fine to consume in moderate quantities only. When buying mayo, read the ingredients list and ensure it doesn’t contain any raw eggs or unpasteurized milk. Mayo is a good source of nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, so feel free to indulge during your pregnancy!
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/pregnancy-mayonnaise
https://www.momjunction.com/articles/is-it-safe-to-eat-mayonnaise-when-pregnant_00376950/
