Can You Eat Mayonnaise When Pregnant?
Reviewed against NHS foods-to-avoid guidance · Updated September 2026
Nutritional data sourced from USDA FoodData Central and Public Health England. Always consult a registered dietitian for personal dietary advice.
Shop-bought mayonnaise is safe during pregnancy because it's made with pasteurised egg. Homemade mayo is only safe if made with British Lion eggs.
Why is mayonnaise safe in pregnancy?
Jarred and squeezy supermarket mayonnaise is made with pasteurised egg, so it's completely safe during pregnancy. The caution applies to homemade or restaurant-made mayonnaise using raw egg: this is only considered safe if the eggs are British Lion stamped. If you can't confirm the eggs used, it's best to skip it.
You can also check the calorie content of mayonnaise alongside its safety information. Also check medication safety during pregnancy if you're managing any conditions.
The exception
Ask before eating homemade or restaurant aioli/mayonnaise — it's fine if made with Lion eggs or pasteurised egg, otherwise avoid.
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Pregnancy essentials
Pregnancy multivitamin
The NHS advises 400µg of folic acid daily — easiest as one daily tablet.
Check Price →Pregnancy food guide
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Want to know exactly what's in your food? Our ingredient checker covers E-numbers, allergens and vegan status.
More pregnancy essentials
Baby-safe food thermometer
Useful for pregnancy cooking checks and later for baby food.
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Common questions
Can I eat mayonnaise in the first trimester?
Yes — mayonnaise is safe at every stage of pregnancy, including the first trimester.
Is a small amount of mayonnaise OK during pregnancy?
There is no safety limit on mayonnaise during pregnancy — enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.
I accidentally ate mayonnaise while pregnant — what should I do?
No action needed — mayonnaise is safe during pregnancy.
Is cooked mayonnaise safe in pregnancy?
Yes — mayonnaise is safe during pregnancy whether cooked or raw (where it's normally eaten raw).
Related answers
Primary source: NHS foods-to-avoid guidance.
The information on 247foodcheck.com is compiled from official public guidance (NHS, Food Standards Agency, USDA/FDA FoodKeeper) and is provided for general information only. It is not medical advice and does not replace guidance from your midwife, GP, health visitor or other qualified professional. When in doubt, throw it out — and if you feel unwell after eating something, contact NHS 111 or your doctor.