Is Mayonnaise Poisonous If Heated?

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Heating mayonnaise is not poisonous or dangerous as long as the mayonnaise has been stored safely before use. While it is a common belief that mayonnaise spoils easily and is a leading cause of food poisoning, the acid present in the condiment actually helps keep it free of dangerous microorganisms.

Mayonnaise probably got its reputation as a food poisoning risk due to the fact that it is commonly added to salads, which contain foods that are often sliced into small pieces and are above 40 degrees Fahrenheit in temperature. The extra surface area and warmer temperatures might cause bacteria to colonize chicken, tuna, eggs or other foods commonly mixed with mayonnaise, and the mayonnaise often gets the blame.