Commercially prepared mayonnaise is safe to use any time of year. Hellmann's Real and Light mayonnaise and Low Fat mayonnaise dressing are made with the highest quality ingredients, including vegetable oils, vinegar, water, salt, sugar, lemon juice, and natural flavors. Hellmann's Real and Light mayonnaise contain pasteurized whole eggs and egg yolks, while Low Fat mayonnaise dressing contains pasteurized egg whites in place of whole egg and egg yolks. Strict processing controls, the acidity from vinegar and lemon juice, plus the use of pasteurized egg products assure the highest level of food safety and quality in Hellmann's mayonnaise. Common sense plays a key role in food safety, so keep in mind that mayonnaise dishes such as salads, dips, sauces, and spreads contain other perishable ingredients, and should be kept chilled until serving time.
Food safety begins in the kitchen, where food is handled and prepared.
After using knives and other utensils for raw meats, eggs, fish, poultry, and raw vegetables, clean thoroughly, especially before using on other foods. Unclean utensils can spread harmful bacteria. Thoroughly scrub the work surface where raw vegetables or raw meats have been cut or where raw meat juices have dripped. Thaw foods in the refrigerator, not at room temperature. Refrigerate cooked foods such as chicken, potatoes, and ham as soon as they stop steaming.