FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidcondimentPRIMAL KITCHEN· 1 Tbsp

PRIMAL KITCHEN PESTO MAYO MAYONNAISE & PESTO BLEND, PESTO MAYO

PRIMAL KITCHEN PESTO MAYO scores 27/100 (Avoid) due to its high saturated fat content and sodium level, despite containing no added sugar.

  • FoodScore: 27/100 (Avoid) for PRIMAL KITCHEN PESTO MAYO.
  • Contains 0g of added sugar, a positive aspect for this condiment.
  • High in saturated fat at 10g per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
  • This product is classified as NOVA class 3 (processed), similar to many other flavored mayonnaise products.
  • Use in small portions to manage intake of fat and sodium.
  • Scores -5 points above the condiment category average (32/100 across 822 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
900mg
39% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table

Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.

What holds it back
Saturated fat (10g)-14
Sodium (900mg)-4
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 27

PRIMAL KITCHEN PESTO MAYO receives a FoodScore of 27 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by its nutritional profile, particularly its fat and sodium content. Per 100g, this product contains 73.33g of total fat, with 10g of that being saturated fat, which incurs a significant penalty of 14 points. Additionally, the sodium content is 900mg per 100g, leading to a 4-point penalty. As a NOVA class 3 food, indicating it is a processed product, it receives a further 5-point penalty. While it contains 0g of added sugar, which is a positive attribute, and uses avocado oil as its primary fat source, these benefits are outweighed by the other nutritional factors. Compared to a generic unbranded mayonnaise, which often has similar fat and sodium levels, this PRIMAL KITCHEN product's score reflects common challenges in the condiment category.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in primal kitchen pesto mayo mayonnaise & pesto blend, pesto mayo actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Contains No Added Sugar

One notable benefit of PRIMAL KITCHEN PESTO MAYO is that it contains no added sugar. This aligns with dietary guidelines that recommend limiting intake of added sugars to reduce the risk of chronic diseases. For individuals monitoring their sugar consumption, this product offers an alternative to other condiments that may contain various forms of added sweeteners. This formulation choice can be helpful for those following specific dietary patterns that restrict sugar, such as ketogenic or low-carbohydrate diets, allowing for flavor without contributing to sugar intake.

Made with Avocado Oil

The primary ingredient in PRIMAL KITCHEN PESTO MAYO is avocado oil. Avocado oil is known for its high content of monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy fats. While this product is high in total fat, the use of avocado oil instead of other oils that might be higher in saturated or less desirable fats is a formulation choice that may be preferred by some consumers. It provides a source of fat that is generally well-regarded for its nutritional properties, contributing to the texture and flavor of the mayonnaise.

Source of Healthy Fats (in moderation)

While high in total fat, the fats in this product are primarily from avocado oil and organic eggs, which contribute monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These types of fats are essential for various bodily functions, including hormone production and nutrient absorption. When consumed in moderation, these fats can be part of a balanced diet. However, due to the high caloric density and saturated fat content, portion control is crucial to ensure that the intake of these fats remains within recommended daily limits.

How to eat it

Pesto mayo is typically used as a flavorful spread or dip. It can enhance sandwiches, wraps, and burgers, or serve as a dip for vegetables and crackers. A common portion is 1 tablespoon, which provides a significant amount of fat and calories.

Use PRIMAL KITCHEN PESTO MAYO as a flavor enhancer for lean protein sources like grilled chicken or fish.
Combine a small amount with plain Greek yogurt to create a lower-fat dip for raw vegetables.
Spread thinly on whole-grain toast with sliced tomatoes for a quick, flavorful snack.
Consider using a measured spoon to control portion sizes and manage fat and sodium intake.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains organic eggs and organic egg yolks, which are common allergens. Individuals with egg allergies should avoid this product. While the product uses avocado oil, it still contains a high amount of saturated fat (10g per 100g), which, when consumed in excess, can contribute to elevated LDL cholesterol levels. The sodium content of 900mg per 100g is also substantial, and individuals monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management should be mindful of portion sizes. The ingredient list also includes 'organic rosemary extract', which is generally recognized as safe but can sometimes be a concern for individuals with specific sensitivities.

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Reader questions
Is PRIMAL KITCHEN PESTO MAYO healthy?
PRIMAL KITCHEN PESTO MAYO scores 27/100, indicating it's an 'Avoid' choice according to FoodScore guidelines. While it contains no added sugar and uses avocado oil, its high saturated fat and sodium content are significant nutritional drawbacks. It's best consumed in small, controlled portions if you choose to include it in your diet.
How does PRIMAL KITCHEN PESTO MAYO compare to other mayonnaises?
Compared to a generic unbranded mayonnaise, PRIMAL KITCHEN PESTO MAYO has a similar nutritional profile in terms of high fat and sodium. For example, a brand like Hellmann's Real Mayonnaise also contains significant fat and sodium. The key difference for PRIMAL KITCHEN is the use of avocado oil and the absence of added sugar, which may appeal to some consumers.
What is 'organic rosemary extract' and why is it in the ingredients?
Organic rosemary extract is used as a natural antioxidant to help preserve the freshness and extend the shelf life of the product. It helps prevent the oxidation of oils, which can lead to rancidity. It's a common ingredient in many food products as an alternative to synthetic preservatives.
What is a reasonable portion size for PRIMAL KITCHEN PESTO MAYO?
The declared serving size is 1 tablespoon. Sticking to this portion size is important to manage the intake of fat and sodium. Consuming larger amounts regularly would significantly increase your intake of these nutrients, potentially exceeding daily recommended limits.
Can I use PRIMAL KITCHEN PESTO MAYO if I'm on a low-carb diet?
Yes, PRIMAL KITCHEN PESTO MAYO is suitable for low-carb diets as it contains 0g of carbohydrates and 0g of added sugar. However, it is still high in calories and fat, so portion control remains essential to align with your overall caloric and fat intake goals for a low-carb regimen.

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Data & references