Hellman’s mayonnaise is suing the maker of egg-less sandwich spread Just Mayo for calling its vegan product “Mayo.” “Under federal regulations, common dictionary definitions and as consumers understand it, ‘mayonnaise’ or ‘mayo’ is a product that contains eggs,” according to the “false advertising”complaint. “That ingredient does not exist in Just Mayo.” Unilever, the parent company of Hellman’s, is also owner of Best Foods Real Mayonnaise, and Just Mayo has taken market share from both. Hampton Creek, maker of Just Mayo, isn’t worried, and is counter-suing. Celebrity chef Andrew Zimmern started an online petition against Hellmann’s claim, calling Unilever a “bully.”
Unilever probably won’t sue ORS, maker of “Hair Mayonnaise.” That black haircare product contains olive oil and egg powder.
More:
“Hellmann’s Maker Sues Company Over Its Just Mayo Substitute Mayonnaise,” Stephanie Strom, New York Times
“Mayo mess calls sandwich spread into question,” Lee Brodie, CNBC
“Big Mayo Vs. Little Mayo: Which Brand Has Egg On Its Face?” Allison Aubrey, NPR
“Start-Up Aims to Replace Eggs with More Sustainable Vegetable Proteins,” Rachel Feltman, Scientific American
Update:
“Big Mayo Wants You to Know There’s Only One Way to Make Mayo, Dammit,” Rowan Jacobsen, Mother Jones
“Mayonnaise Manufacturer Sues ‘Mayo’ Maker: On Definitions, Sustainability and Start-Ups,” Maryn McKenna, National Geographic blog
Related:
“What Is Kewpie Mayonaise?” Kitchn.com
ULTIMATE UPDATE:
“Hellman’s owner Unilever cracks over egg-free Just Mayo lawsuit,” The Guardian
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