Hellmann's

Plant based mayo

Barcode 8720182811578

Scanned 29 times by Nomi users

Yes — Plant based mayo is ultra-processed.

This product is classified as ultra-processed (UPF) under the NOVA system because it contains several industrial ingredients and additives. Specifically, it includes modified starch, thickener (xanthan gum), antioxidant (calcium disodium EDTA), paprika extract, and natural flavourings. Modified starch, calcium disodium EDTA, paprika extract, and industrial flavourings are pre-identified and typical UPF markers as they are industrial formulations not used in home cooking, functioning as stabilizers, preservatives, color/flavor enhancers, and texturizers. Xanthan gum is also an industrial stabilizer/thickener used to modify texture. These additives go beyond basic culinary processing, so the presence of these ingredients classifies the product as UPF.

Ingredients

4 ultra-processed markers

OK

rapeseed oil (52%)
OK

water

Essential base ingredient for countless foods and beverages; serves as solvent and texture modifier.
OK

spirit vinegar

A clear, distilled vinegar typically made from fermented alcohol (ethanol) and used for pickling, flavoring, and preservation.
UPF

modified starch

Starch that has been chemically or physically modified to alter its thickening, texture, or stability properties; commonly used as a thickener or stabilizer in processed foods.
OK

sugar

Granulated sugar derived from sugarcane or sugar beets; a basic, single-ingredient sweetener.
OK

salt

Common mineral compound (sodium chloride) used as a seasoning and preservative across cuisines.
OK

natural flavourings (contain mustard)
OK

lemon juice concentrate

Concentrated lemon juice, a tart citrus flavoring derived from lemons.
UPF

xanthan gum

A fermented polysaccharide thickener used as a food additive to improve texture.
UPF

calcium disodium edta

A chelating agent and antioxidant used in small amounts in food to bind trace metals and extend shelf-life.
UPF

paprika extract

Concentrated flavor ingredient derived from paprika (capsicum) used to impart paprika flavor without the physical pepper pieces.
OK

sunflower oil

A neutral-tasting culinary oil pressed from sunflower seeds, rich in unsaturated fats and commonly used for frying and dressings.
OK

take a look at www
OK

hellmanns
OK

co
OK

uk for more information on our sustainability commitment and recipe inspiration

Healthier alternatives

Reviewed by Nomi

Similar products that aren't ultra-processed — swap and keep the flavour.

Hunter and Gather 100% olive oil egg free mayo classic

Hunter and Gather

View product →

Swap it for something less processed

See all Sauces, Condiments & Spreads →

Other sauces, condiments & spreads Nomi has checked — these ones aren't ultra-processed.

Common questions about Plant based mayo

Is Plant based mayo ultra-processed?

Yes — Plant based mayo by Hellmann's is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). This product is classified as ultra-processed (UPF) under the NOVA system because it contains several industrial ingredients and additives. Specifically, it includes modified starch, thickener (xanthan gum), antioxidant (calcium disodium EDTA), paprika extract, and natural flavourings. Modified starch, calcium disodium EDTA, paprika extract, and industrial flavourings are pre-identified and typical UPF markers as they are industrial formulations not used in home cooking, functioning as stabilizers, preservatives, color/flavor enhancers, and texturizers. Xanthan gum is also an industrial stabilizer/thickener used to modify texture. These additives go beyond basic culinary processing, so the presence of these ingredients classifies the product as UPF.

Which ingredients in Plant based mayo are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 4 ingredients in Plant based mayo as ultra-processed markers: modified starch, xanthan gum, calcium disodium edta, paprika extract. See the full ingredient breakdown above for what each one is.

What are healthier alternatives to Plant based mayo?

Nomi has reviewed similar products that are not ultra-processed, including Vegan Mayo by Dr. Will's, Hunter and Gather 100% olive oil egg free mayo classic by Hunter and Gather. See the healthier alternatives above for details.

What does "ultra-processed" (UPF) mean?

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrial formulations made with ingredients and additives you wouldn't find in a home kitchen — such as emulsifiers, artificial flavourings, colourings and modified starches. The classification is based on the NOVA system used by researchers and dietitians worldwide.

How can I check whether other foods are ultra-processed?

Scan any barcode — or photograph the ingredients label — with the free Nomi app for iOS and Android. You'll get an instant ultra-processed verdict with every ingredient explained in plain English.

Product information comes from public databases and Nomi's own analysis, and may contain errors. Always check the packaging. Ultra-processed classification is based on the NOVA food processing system.