Mayonnaise does not contain lactose. It is typically composed of oil, egg yolk, vinegar or lemon juice, and sometimes mustard, meaning it has no dairy, in other words, no lactose. To be labelled ‘lactose-free’, the mayo should contain a product that has had lactose removed and thus has become lactose-free.
This versatile condiment boasts a smooth texture and a rich, tangy flavour, making it the perfect accompaniment for sandwiches, salads, and dips.
How to know if mayonnaise is lactose-free?
Most often, a mayonnaise does not contain lactose, as there are no dairy products in it. However, you can always check the ingredients list on the jar or container and keep an eye out for dairy-derived ingredients such as milk, cream, or whey.
Most commercial mayonnaise brands are made without these dairy ingredients and, therefore, do not contain any lactose. However, certain varieties may contain dairy to add richness or creaminess to the texture.
If you want to know more about food and lactose, look at this overview of foods that do not have lactose or read more about specific products such as lactose-free cheese or lactose-free milk.
How is mayonnaise made?
Mayonnaise is very easy to make at home.
First, whisk egg yolk with seasonings like salt, pepper, and perhaps mustard for a well-rounded flavour profile.
Next, gradually blend oil into the seasoned yolk while whisking vigorously, causing the mixture to emulsify and thicken into a luxurious, velvety consistency.
Finally, add a touch of vinegar or lemon juice for acidity, which helps balance the richness of the oil and egg yolk.
This harmonious fusion of ingredients results in the delectable, spreadable condiment we all cherish – completely without lactose.
Aioli, chilli mayo, tartar sauce, and much more
As mentioned, mayonnaise is perfect for a lot of dishes and snacks. So, once you have made it, start mixing up variations by adding a few other simple ingredients.
Make an easy aioli, mixing mayonnaise with minced garlic and Dijon mustard, maybe lemon juice. For a classic chilli mayonnaise, simply add chilli flakes, sriracha chilli, chopped chilli, or the like. Tartar sauce is a French classic, and combining mayonnaise with pickles, lemon juice, and fresh parsley yields this delightful accompaniment to various dishes.
