The Only Store-Bought Mayo Brand Martha Stewart Will Buy

It’s a staple in her pantry.

Mayonnaise is one of those pantry staples we just can't seem to live without, whether we're slathering it on sandwiches or using it to whip up deviled eggs. But with so many brands on the market—and just as many opinions about them—it begs the question: Is there truly a noticeable difference between mayo brands?

For many celebrity chefs and home cooks, the answer is a resounding “yes.” In our blind taste test of eight store-bought mayo brands, four stood out: Hellmann’s, Duke’s, Kewpie, and Sir Kensington’s. Among these, Hellmann’s and Duke’s emerged as favorites for home cooks.

When five professional chefs were asked about their preferred mayo, the response was unanimous. They all chose Duke’s, calling it “luxuriously creamy, pleasantly tangy, and more or less bulletproof.”

The preferences of celebrity chefs, however, aren’t as unanimous.

The incomparable Julia Child favored Hellmann’s, often using it to make a comforting tuna salad sandwich. Ina Garten splits her loyalty between Hellmann’s and Duke’s, praising both as “good quality store-bought brands.”

Alton Brown opts for Duke’s, citing its distinctive “zing.” And while Stephen Colbert might not immediately come to mind as a celebrity chef, the “Late Show” host and his wife recently published "Does This Taste Funny? Recipes Our Family Loves." Turns out, Colbert is a Duke’s man.

Martha Stewart’s Mayo of Choice

So, where does Martha Stewart stand? Does she side with Julia and Ina or with Alton and Stephen?

Like many chefs, Martha often makes mayonnaise from scratch. It’s a straightforward process involving just a few common pantry staples and no cooking—simply whisk the ingredients together or emulsify them in a blender.

When she’s not making her own, Martha aligns with Julia and Ina as a Hellmann’s fan. In her latest (and 100th!) book, "Martha: The Cookbook," she lists Hellmann’s as a pantry essential she always keeps on hand.

It seems Martha has spoken. If it’s good enough for her, it might be time to reassess your mayo loyalties.