Just Mayo, a popular vegan mayonnaise alternative, has been a staple in many plant-based households since its introduction in 2013. However, there have been rumors circulating that the product is no longer being manufactured. In this article, we will delve into the history of Just Mayo, its rise to fame, and what really happened to this beloved condiment.
A Brief History of Just Mayo
Just Mayo was created by Josh Tetrick, the founder of Hampton Creek, a food technology company that aimed to revolutionize the way we eat. The company’s mission was to create plant-based alternatives to traditional egg-based products, such as mayonnaise and scrambled eggs. Just Mayo was the company’s first product, and it quickly gained popularity among vegans and non-vegans alike due to its creamy texture and delicious taste.
The product was made from a combination of canola oil, water, lemon juice, vinegar, and a touch of sugar, as well as a proprietary ingredient called “yellow pea protein.” This protein, derived from yellow peas, was the key to Just Mayo’s unique texture and stability. The product was also free from common allergens such as eggs, dairy, and soy, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Rise to Fame
Just Mayo quickly gained traction in the market, and by 2014, it was available in over 40,000 stores across the United States. The product was praised by food critics and bloggers, who raved about its taste and versatility. Just Mayo was also endorsed by several high-profile celebrities, including Bill Gates and Li Ka-shing, who invested in the company.
However, Just Mayo’s success was not without controversy. In 2014, the company faced a lawsuit from Unilever, the manufacturer of Hellmann’s mayonnaise, which claimed that Just Mayo’s labeling was misleading and that the product did not meet the FDA’s definition of mayonnaise. The lawsuit was eventually dropped, but it sparked a heated debate about the definition of mayonnaise and the use of the term “mayo” in product labeling.
What Happened to Just Mayo?
So, did they stop making Just Mayo? The answer is a bit complicated. In 2019, Hampton Creek, the company behind Just Mayo, underwent a major restructuring. The company laid off several employees and closed its manufacturing facility in California.
However, the company did not completely discontinue Just Mayo. Instead, it partnered with a new manufacturer to continue producing the product. The new manufacturer, a company called Eat Just, Inc., is a subsidiary of Hampton Creek that focuses on plant-based food products.
Eat Just, Inc. continues to produce Just Mayo, although the product is no longer as widely available as it once was. The company has shifted its focus to online sales and has partnered with several major retailers, including Amazon and Walmart, to sell its products.
Why is Just Mayo No Longer in Stores?
So, why is Just Mayo no longer available in many stores? There are several reasons for this. One reason is that the company has shifted its focus to online sales, which allows it to reach a wider audience and reduce its distribution costs.
Another reason is that the company has faced increased competition from other plant-based mayonnaise brands. In recent years, several new brands have entered the market, offering similar products at competitive prices. This increased competition has made it harder for Just Mayo to maintain its market share.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has also had an impact on Just Mayo’s availability. The pandemic has disrupted supply chains and led to shortages of many food products, including plant-based mayonnaise.
Eat Just, Inc. has reported that the pandemic has affected its ability to produce and distribute Just Mayo, leading to shortages in some areas. However, the company is working to resolve these issues and ensure that the product is available to consumers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Just Mayo is still available, although it may not be as widely available as it once was. The company behind the product, Eat Just, Inc., continues to produce and distribute Just Mayo, although it has shifted its focus to online sales.
While the product may not be in every store, it can still be found online and in some specialty retailers. Fans of Just Mayo can also try making their own vegan mayonnaise at home using a variety of recipes available online.
Ultimately, the story of Just Mayo is a testament to the power of innovation and the growing demand for plant-based food products. As the market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for this beloved condiment.
| Product | Ingredients | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Just Mayo | Canola oil, water, lemon juice, vinegar, sugar, yellow pea protein | Online, specialty retailers |
Key Takeaways:
- Just Mayo is still available, although it may not be as widely available as it once was.
- The company behind the product, Eat Just, Inc., continues to produce and distribute Just Mayo.
- The product can be found online and in some specialty retailers.
- Fans of Just Mayo can also try making their own vegan mayonnaise at home using a variety of recipes available online.
Is Just Mayo Still Available in Stores?
Just Mayo is still available in some stores, but its availability has decreased significantly since its peak in the mid-2010s. The brand’s parent company, Hampton Creek, rebranded as Just, Inc. in 2017 and shifted its focus towards other products. As a result, Just Mayo is no longer widely distributed, and it can be challenging to find it in local stores.
However, some online retailers still carry Just Mayo, and it can also be found in some specialty stores that focus on vegan or plant-based products. If you’re having trouble finding Just Mayo in stores, you can try checking the company’s website for a list of authorized retailers or shopping online.
What Happened to Just Mayo?
Just Mayo was a popular vegan mayonnaise alternative that gained widespread attention in the mid-2010s. However, the brand faced several challenges, including a lawsuit from Unilever, the manufacturer of Hellmann’s mayonnaise, which claimed that Just Mayo did not meet the FDA’s definition of mayonnaise. The lawsuit was eventually dropped, but it damaged the brand’s reputation and led to a decline in sales.
In 2017, Hampton Creek rebranded as Just, Inc. and shifted its focus towards other products, including a line of vegan egg substitutes and a plant-based meat alternative. While Just Mayo is still available in some stores, it is no longer a major focus for the company.
Is Just Mayo Still a Viable Alternative to Traditional Mayonnaise?
Just Mayo is still a viable alternative to traditional mayonnaise for those looking for a vegan or plant-based option. The product is made from a combination of canola oil, water, and plant-based ingredients, and it has a similar taste and texture to traditional mayonnaise. However, some consumers have reported that the product’s quality has declined in recent years, and it may not be as widely available as it once was.
Despite these challenges, Just Mayo remains a popular choice among vegans and those looking for a plant-based mayonnaise alternative. The product is also relatively affordable, with a price point that is comparable to traditional mayonnaise.
Can I Still Buy Just Mayo Online?
Yes, Just Mayo is still available for purchase online from several retailers, including Amazon and Thrive Market. The product can also be found on the company’s website, although the selection may be limited. When shopping online, be sure to check the product’s expiration date and packaging to ensure that it is fresh and has not been damaged during shipping.
Online retailers may also offer discounts or promotions on Just Mayo, which can make it a more affordable option for those looking for a vegan or plant-based mayonnaise alternative.
Is Just Mayo Still a Part of the Just, Inc. Product Line?
Just Mayo is still a part of the Just, Inc. product line, although it is no longer a major focus for the company. Just, Inc. has shifted its focus towards other products, including a line of vegan egg substitutes and a plant-based meat alternative. However, the company still maintains a presence in the mayonnaise market with Just Mayo.
Just, Inc. has not announced any plans to discontinue Just Mayo, and the product remains available for purchase on the company’s website and through select retailers.
What Are Some Alternatives to Just Mayo?
There are several alternatives to Just Mayo available in the market, including Vegenaise and Sir Kensington’s Fabanaise. These products are also vegan or plant-based mayonnaise alternatives that offer a similar taste and texture to traditional mayonnaise. Other brands, such as Follow Your Heart and Primal Kitchen, also offer vegan mayonnaise alternatives that may be a good substitute for Just Mayo.
When shopping for an alternative to Just Mayo, be sure to read the ingredient label and look for products that are made with high-quality, plant-based ingredients. You may also want to consider the product’s price point and availability in your local area.
Will Just Mayo Make a Comeback?
It’s unclear whether Just Mayo will make a comeback as a major player in the mayonnaise market. While the brand still maintains a presence in the market, its availability and popularity have declined significantly since its peak in the mid-2010s. Just, Inc. has shifted its focus towards other products, and it’s unclear whether the company will prioritize Just Mayo in the future.
However, the demand for vegan and plant-based products continues to grow, and there may be an opportunity for Just Mayo to regain its popularity in the future. If the company can revamp its product line and improve its distribution, it’s possible that Just Mayo could make a comeback in the market.