Just Mayo

[[File:PhotographofJustMayo.jpg -->|thumb]] Just Mayo is a brand of mayonnaise that was introduced by Hampton Creek, now known as Eat Just, Inc., in 2013. Unlike traditional mayonnaise, which is made with eggs, Just Mayo is produced using plant-based ingredients, making it suitable for vegans, those with egg allergies, and individuals looking for more sustainable food options. The primary ingredient that emulsifies the oil and water in Just Mayo is yellow pea protein, which serves as a substitute for eggs.

Ingredients and Nutrition

Just Mayo's formulation includes non-GMO expeller-pressed canola oil, water, white distilled vinegar, contains less than 2% of organic sugar, salt, pea protein, spices, modified food starch, lemon juice concentrate, fruit and vegetable juice (color), and calcium disodium EDTA to protect flavor. Its nutritional profile is similar to that of traditional mayonnaise, being high in fat but free from cholesterol and eggs.

History

The development of Just Mayo was part of Hampton Creek's mission to create food products that are sustainable, healthy, and affordable. The company, founded by Josh Tetrick in 2011, aimed to disrupt the food industry by offering plant-based alternatives to commonly used animal products. Just Mayo was one of its first products and received significant attention for its innovative approach to a staple condiment.

Controversies

Just Mayo has been at the center of several controversies, primarily regarding its labeling. In 2014, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning to Hampton Creek, stating that Just Mayo's name and labeling were misleading because it implied the product was mayonnaise, which according to FDA definitions, must contain eggs. The company responded by arguing that the name was not meant to imply that the product was mayonnaise but rather a new type of product altogether. In 2015, the FDA and Hampton Creek reached an agreement that allowed the product to keep its name, provided that it made clearer that it was an egg-free product.

Market Impact

Just Mayo has had a significant impact on the food industry, encouraging other companies to explore plant-based alternatives to animal products. Its success has shown that there is a substantial market for such products, driven by consumer interest in health, sustainability, and animal welfare. The introduction of Just Mayo and similar products has contributed to the growth of the plant-based food sector, which continues to expand as more consumers seek out alternatives to traditional animal-based foods.

See Also

• Veganism
• Plant-based diet
• Sustainable food system
• Egg substitute

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