Family foods Food Library
When can babies have mayonnaise?
Can babies eat mayonnaise?
Babies can have store-bought mayonnaise made with pasteurized eggs from about 6 months, in small amounts. Homemade mayonnaise made with raw, unpasteurized egg yolks is not safe for babies because of the risk of salmonella. Mayonnaise usually contains egg, a Top 9 allergen, so introduce egg first.
How to serve mayonnaise by age
Shapes and textures change as your baby’s grasp and chewing grow.
6 months
Stir a small amount of plain store-bought mayonnaise made with pasteurized eggs into smooth mashed hard-boiled egg, blended salmon or mashed avocado to moisten it, and offer it on a spoon.
7–8 months
Use a little mayonnaise to moisten lumpier mashes like fork-mashed egg or flaked salmon, or spread a thin layer on a soft toast strip your baby can hold.
9–12 months
Use a little mayonnaise to bind soft egg salad, tuna salad made with light canned tuna, or chicken salad, then offer small pieces or spread it on toast. Mayonnaise can also make dry foods easier to swallow.
12 months +
Toddlers can have mayonnaise in sandwiches, salads and as a dip mixed with yogurt. Keep portions modest, since mayonnaise is mostly fat and some brands add salt and sugar.
Why it’s good
Mayonnaise is mostly fat from oil and egg yolk, which gives babies energy and helps them absorb vitamins A, D, E and K. Some mayonnaise contains vitamin E and omega-3 fats depending on the oil used. Mayonnaise offers little protein or iron, so think of it as a helpful add-in rather than a main food.
Safety notes
- Use store-bought mayonnaise made with pasteurized eggs. Homemade mayonnaise and some fresh restaurant aioli use raw eggs, which can carry salmonella.
- Keep mayonnaise and foods made with it cold. Do not leave mayo-based salads out for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour in hot weather.
- Some mayonnaise is fairly high in sodium and may contain added sugar. Compare labels and use small amounts.
- Flavored mayonnaise like sriracha or wasabi mayo can be spicy and salty. Stick to plain mayonnaise for babies.
- Mayonnaise itself is not a choking risk, but the foods you mix it with should still be soft and cut to a safe size.
Introduce mayonnaise on its own, then keep it in
Most mayonnaise contains egg, one of the Top 9 allergens, and some brands contain soy oil or mustard. Introduce egg on its own first, then watch for hives, vomiting, swelling or wheezing, and use egg-free mayonnaise if your baby has an egg allergy.
Mayonnaise for babies: questions parents ask
Quick answers about mayonnaise for babies and toddlers.
When can babies have mayonnaise?
Babies can have mayonnaise from about 6 months if it is store-bought and made with pasteurized eggs. Use small amounts to moisten other foods.
Can babies eat mayonnaise?
Yes, babies can eat store-bought mayonnaise in small amounts. Homemade mayonnaise made with raw eggs is not safe for babies and young children.
Is mayonnaise a choking hazard for babies?
Mayonnaise is not a common choking hazard because it is smooth and soft. The foods served with mayonnaise, like sandwiches or chunks of meat, should still be prepared in safe sizes.
Is mayonnaise a common allergen?
Yes, mayonnaise is a common allergen because it is usually made with egg. Some brands also contain soy or mustard, so read the label.
How do I serve mayonnaise to a 6 month old?
To serve mayonnaise to a 6 month old, mix about half a teaspoon into smooth mashed hard-boiled egg, avocado or finely mashed fish, and offer it on a spoon. Choose a plain, store-bought brand. Spreading it thinly on soft toast strips can follow at 7–8 months.
Is homemade mayonnaise safe for babies?
Homemade mayonnaise is not safe for babies if it is made with raw, unpasteurized eggs, because of salmonella risk. If you make mayonnaise at home, use pasteurized eggs.
Is store-bought mayonnaise pasteurized?
Most store-bought mayonnaise in the US is made with pasteurized eggs and is shelf-stable until opened. Check the label, and refrigerate mayonnaise after opening.
Is there egg-free mayonnaise for babies with egg allergy?
Yes, egg-free or vegan mayonnaise is widely available and is usually made with plant proteins like aquafaba or soy. Check the label for other allergens your baby needs to avoid.
Can mayonnaise help babies poop?
Mayonnaise is not a remedy for constipation, though the fat in it can make some foods easier to swallow. Fiber-rich foods like pears, prunes and beans plus water work better for constipation.
The takeaway
- Babies can have store-bought mayonnaise made with pasteurized eggs from about 6 months, in small amounts.
- Stir a small amount of plain store-bought mayonnaise made with pasteurized eggs into smooth mashed hard-boiled egg, blended salmon or mashed avocado to moisten it, and offer it on a spoon.
- Choking risk is low. Egg is one of the Top 9 allergens: offer a small amount first, watch for a reaction, then keep it in the diet regularly.
Read next
Sources
This guide follows current advice from these organizations.
- Starting Solid Foods American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org)
- When, What, and How to Introduce Solid Foods Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Choking Hazards Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Foods and Drinks to Avoid or Limit Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025 U.S. Department of Agriculture and HHS
- The Effects of Early Nutritional Interventions on the Development of Atopic Disease in Infants and Children Greer FR, Sicherer SH, Burks AW; American Academy of Pediatrics. Pediatrics. 2019;143(4):e20190281
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Updated November 2026. Reviewed by our dietitians. Based on AAP, CDC and NIAID guidance. Written for healthy, full-term babies; not a substitute for your pediatrician. If your baby was born early, has a medical condition, feeding difficulties or a known allergy, check with them first (medical disclaimer). Always stay with your baby while they eat.