Can I eat mayonnaise while pregnant?

Moderate

Commercial (store-bought) mayo is safe — made with pasteurized eggs. Homemade mayo or aioli with raw eggs is not.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Example, OB-GYN, MD Last reviewed: January 15, 2025Editorial process

What's safe

All major commercial mayo brands — made with pasteurized eggs
Japanese mayo (Kewpie) and other commercial varieties
Sandwiches and salads from restaurants that use commercial mayo

What to avoid

Homemade mayonnaise or aioli made with raw egg yolks
Restaurant aioli or Caesar dressing made from scratch — ask whether pasteurized eggs are used
Any mayo-based dish left at room temperature for more than 2 hours

Sources & citations

Every verdict on this page is grounded in an authoritative source. If you spot outdated guidance, email [email protected].

Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Pregnancy nutrition: Foods to avoid during pregnancy
Mayo Clinic
Healthy Eating During Pregnancy (FAQ)
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

Frequently asked questions

Is the mayo on a deli sandwich safe?

Almost certainly yes. Commercial kitchens use bulk commercial mayo made with pasteurized eggs. At a deli, the greater risk is the meat (listeria from cold cuts), not the mayo.

What about aioli in a restaurant?

Traditional aioli is made with raw egg yolk. Many restaurants substitute commercial mayo-based aioli — ask whether it is made with raw eggs before ordering.

Track your meals with SafeBites

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More foods to check

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This page is informational only and is not medical advice. Always consult your OB-GYN, midwife, or registered dietitian about your specific pregnancy nutrition questions — particularly if you have gestational diabetes, food allergies, or other complications.