Duke’s Mayonnaise

Rated at 2/5 green leaves, Duke’s Mayonnaise Real Mayonnaise falls short in the cleaner food category due to several factors. This product is not organic, it is made with genetically modified ingredients, and it includes additives and oils that our criteria deem potentially harmful to health.

Duke’s Real Mayonnaise is crafted with soybean oil, which is often sourced from genetically modified crops, raising concerns about long-term health impacts and environmental effects. The presence of soybean oil also contributes to the product’s lower rating, as this type of oil is considered less healthy compared to alternatives such as olive or avocado oil. Additionally, the inclusion of eggs, while providing a source of protein, does not boost the product’s score since the eggs are not specified to be from free-range or organic sources.

The mayonnaise also contains natural flavors and calcium disodium EDTA. These ingredients, particularly the vague ‘natural flavors’ and the synthetic preservative calcium disodium EDTA, are flagged for their potential health implications. While these additives are approved for use and may serve to enhance flavor and shelf life, they do not align with the criteria for a clean label.

The product’s formulation further includes distilled and cider vinegar, water, and salt, which are standard in mayonnaise but do not contribute positively or negatively to the rating. The oleoresin paprika is a color additive derived from natural sources and is considered safe, yet it does not elevate the product’s standing within the clean food spectrum.

Duke’s Real Mayonnaise, therefore, has ample room for improvement. To elevate its standing to a cleaner, healthier option, it would need to transition to organic, non-GMO ingredients, and replace potentially harmful additives and oils with more natural, health-conscious alternatives. Until such changes are made, it remains a product that does not meet the higher standards set for cleaner food choices.