Food Label for Vegan Mayo Spread: Trader Joe's
Vegan Mayo Spread: Trader Joe'sThis vegan mayo spread is a decent choice for those looking for a plant-based condiment, but it's important to be mindful of its sodium content and fat source. As a condiment, it's typically used in small amounts, which helps mitigate some concerns. The flavor profile is likely spicy and savory given the ingredients. This is not a healthy choice for kids. If you are looking for healthier alternatives for your kids or for yourself, read on. Benefits: 1. Vegan-friendly: This product is suitable for those following a vegan diet, as it uses plant-based ingredients instead of eggs or other animal products typically found in mayonnaise. This is clearly marketed on the bottle. Concerns: 1. High Sodium: A single tablespoon serving contains 200mg of sodium, which is 9% of the Daily Value. While 9% may not seem high, consider that condiments are often used in larger quantities or multiple times in a meal. If you use 2-3 tablespoons, you're quickly adding a significant amount of sodium. This is a common pitfall with many processed condiments. 2. Soybean Oil as Primary Fat: Soybean oil is the first ingredient in the vegan mayo spread, indicating it's the primary fat source. While soybean oil is generally recognized as safe, it's high in omega-6 fatty acids. A diet too high in omega-6s, without sufficient omega-3s, can promote inflammation. While you can balance this with other foods, it's worth noting. 3. Added Sugar: Although only 3g (6% DV) of added sugars per serving, sugar is listed multiple times (sugar, distilled vinegar, horseradish, salt, sugar, turmeric powder, citr