Four culinary experts have settled the long-standing debate over mayonnaise storage: once opened, it must go in the fridge. Chefs Mike Reid, Jeremy Pang, and Nima Safaei, along with registered nutritionist Lily Keeling, all reached the same verdict.
Why the fridge is essential
Jeremy Pang, speaking exclusively, said: "Mayo - a definitely no go outside of the fridge! My kids call it 'egg sauce' and you wouldn't just leave 1/2 cracked raw eggs lying around in a cupboard."
Mike Reid agreed, explaining that shop-bought mayo can stay in the cupboard until opened, but then it must be refrigerated. He dismissed the common picnic myth, saying: "Nine times out of ten it's the chicken cooking in the sun next to it that gets you, not the mayo."
Expert advice on handling
Nima Safaei stressed that mayonnaise "should always be refrigerated after opening, regardless of whether it's homemade or shop-bought." He warned against leaving the jar out during barbecues, recommending discarding any leftovers that sit out too long, especially on hot days.
Lily Keeling added: "Mayo is one I'd always keep in the fridge once it's been opened. When unopened, it's fine in a cupboard, but I always keep it in the fridge."
Brand guidance
Hellmann's advises refrigerating after opening and storing in the fridge door, avoiding freezing. Heinz confirmed its mayonnaise must be kept in the fridge once opened, as printed on its bottles.
