'Mayo Wars' proves good food is winning

Have you heard the quote:

Gandhi said that and he was one smart bloke. As someone who believes in a kinder world for animals, I know what it feels like to be at every one of those stages, and I'm sure you do too. But today, my friend, we are winning! Here's why ...

You might remember when Unilever, parent company of Hellman's mayonnaise, filed a lawsuit against Hampton Creek for their egg-free mayonnaise 'Just Mayo'. Unilever said that the name 'Just Mayo' was misleading because traditional mayonnaise should include eggs.

What was nicknamed the 'Mayo Wars' attracted massive media attention, with over 112,000 people signing a petition siding with Hampton Creek. In November 2014, Unilever dropped the lawsuit. At around the same time Hampton Creek secured $90 million in funding. Amongst the investors was Eduardo Saverin, co-founder of Facebook. Bill Gates also supports Hampton Creek.

Soon after, the FDA said that 'Just Mayo' could keep their name -- a victory for Hampton Creek, and for chickens everywhere. Because even 'free range' and 'organic' eggs can be bad news for layer hens and male chicks.

Before you start celebrating, it gets even better ... Hellman's has just launched an egg-free mayonnaise. I guess they figured if you can't beat them, join them :)

When asked whether the new eggless mayonnaise was in response to the 'Just Mayo' debacle, spokesperson for Hellman's said they were simply catering to customers tastes.

This win for people and animals is a good reminder of the power of asking for stuff. If companies can see that there's a market for cruelty-free stuff, they'll want to get in on it. Why not ask your favourite local cafe to do some more meat-free options next time you're there?

Oh, along with trying to stop a cruelty-free mayo from getting on shelves, there's something else you should know about Unilever -- they conduct cruel tests on animals. Along with Hellman's, Unilever owns Dove, Rexona, Lynx and more. It was people power who got Unilever to venture into egg-free mayo and my bet is it will be people power that gets them to stop testing on animals. Click here to ask Unilever to stop testing on animals.

And one last thing -- Hampton Creek also makes vegan cookie dough! Join me in politelty asking them to get their delicious products to Australia by posting on their Facebook page.

Header image: Facebook/HamptonCreek

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