Identifying whether a product is vegan can often be a challenge, and Kewpie Mayo is no exception.
This difficulty arises due to manufacturers often being elusive about the true nature and source of their ingredients — late-stage capitalism and all that.
This article is designed to clear up any confusion, helping to support you in your vegan lifestyle by unraveling the truth about this popular condiment.
Is Kewpie Mayo Vegan?
No, traditional Kewpie Mayo is not vegan. The main reasons behind this are the inclusion of egg yolk and other animal-based ingredients in its recipe.
Egg yolks, the primary non-vegan ingredient, play a significant role in creating the signature creamy texture and taste that distinguishes Kewpie Mayo from other mayonnaise types. While it might enhance the flavor and consistency, the use of egg yolks poses a serious problem for those committed to a vegan lifestyle, or those who simply enjoy vegan mayonnaise.
Is Kewpie Mayo Cruelty-Free?
Given the use of egg yolks in the production of Kewpie Mayo, it can’t be considered cruelty-free. Egg production often involves practices that cause harm to hens, which directly contradicts the principles of a cruelty-free lifestyle.
What Is Kewpie Mayo Made Of?
Kewpie Mayo, often hailed for its unique, tangy flavor, is composed of several ingredients that contribute to its distinct taste. Here’s a rundown of the ingredients in the original Kewpie Mayo:
- Egg yolks
- Vegetable oil
- Vinegar
- Salt
- Sugar
- Yeast extract powder
- Distilled vinegar
Egg yolks
As mentioned earlier, egg yolks are one of the main ingredients in Kewpie Mayo, contributing to its thick, creamy texture and rich flavor. However, since eggs are an animal product, they are not suitable for a vegan or plant-based diet.
Vegetable oil
Vegetable oil is a key ingredient in many types of mayonnaise, including Kewpie. It is derived from plants, making it suitable for a vegan lifestyle.
Vinegar
Vinegar, used in Kewpie Mayo, is a vegan-friendly ingredient, often derived from apples or grains. It helps to create the unique, tangy flavor that Kewpie Mayo is famous for.
Salt, sugar, and yeast extract powder
These ingredients, while they appear innocent, can sometimes hide non-vegan elements. However, in Kewpie Mayo, they are derived from non-animal sources, making them suitable for vegans.
Distilled vinegar
Distilled vinegar is another primary ingredient in Kewpie Mayo. This vinegar is often derived from grains or fruit, making it a vegan-friendly addition.
Vegan Alternatives to Kewpie Mayo
If you’re a fan of the distinct flavor of Kewpie Mayo but are committed to a vegan lifestyle, don’t worry — there are plenty of vegan alternatives out there. Here are some vegan mayo options that could replace Kewpie in your recipes:
- Just Mayo: A popular brand that offers vegan mayonnaise.
- Follow Your Heart’s VegenaiseFollow Your Heart’s Vegenaise:This is another delicious egg-free alternative.
- Homemade vegan mayo: With simple ingredients like soy milk, vinegar, salt, and vegetable oil, you can create your own vegan mayo at home.
Conclusion
In summary, traditional Kewpie Mayo, a popular mayonnaise food brand, is not vegan or cruelty-free due to the inclusion of egg yolks in its recipe. While the unique, tangy flavor of Kewpie Mayo is much-loved, it doesn’t align with a vegan or plant-based diet.
Thankfully, there are a host of vegan mayonnaise brands and foods alternatives to Kewpie Mayo available in stores or easy to make at home. With a little creativity and the right ingredients, you can enjoy the delicious taste of mayonnaise while still adhering to your vegan principles.