An ordinary day at a cafe in Málaga, Spain, turned into a fiery drama when a simple culinary staple—mayonnaise—became the unlikely source of a significant blaze. The incident has prompted an unusual safety intervention from none other than the world's leading mayonnaise brand, Hellmann's.
The fire erupted after a pan of mayonnaise was left unattended on a lit hob. The intense heat caused the oil-based condiment to overheat dramatically, eventually igniting and spreading flames through the kitchen. Emergency services were swiftly dispatched to the scene to bring the situation under control.
An Unlikely Firestarter
While it may sound surprising, mayonnaise can indeed pose a fire risk. The high oil content makes it combustible when subjected to extreme temperatures. This incident serves as a stark reminder that even everyday food items require careful handling in the kitchen.
Thankfully, no serious injuries were reported, though the cafe sustained notable damage from the flames and smoke.
Hellmann's Issues Swift Safety Advice
In a swift and socially savvy response, Hellmann's UK took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to address the incident. The brand's official account issued a clear and concise public safety message, advising consumers to never heat mayonnaise in a pan over a direct flame.
The statement emphasised that their product, like many other oil-based foods, is not designed for such use and can become dangerous. This proactive communication demonstrates a brand prioritising consumer safety alongside product marketing.
A Warning for Home Cooks and Professionals Alike
This unusual event highlights a potential kitchen hazard that many may be unaware of. Both home cooks and professional chefs should be mindful of the following:
- Never leave cooking oil or oil-based products unattended on a heat source.
- Be aware of the flash points of common cooking ingredients.
- Keep a fire extinguisher rated for grease fires (Class F in the UK) readily available in the kitchen.
The Málaga cafe fire, while fortunate in its outcome, is a sizzling reminder that safety in the kitchen should always be the number one ingredient.
