Hello! I'm Dr. Sarah, a food scientist specializing in the science of emulsions, which are mixtures of liquids that don't naturally mix, like oil and water. You might be surprised to know that mayonnaise and Miracle Whip are both emulsions! However, they're not exactly the same. They have some key differences in ingredients and texture.

Mayonnaise is a classic emulsion, typically made with egg yolks, oil, vinegar, and salt. The egg yolks act as an emulsifier, binding the oil and water together to create a smooth, creamy sauce.

Miracle Whip, on the other hand, is more of a salad dressing than a pure mayonnaise. It contains mayonnaise as a base, but it also includes ingredients like sugar, mustard, paprika, vinegar, and spices. This combination gives Miracle Whip a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor, distinct from the more neutral taste of mayonnaise.

Here's a breakdown of the key differences:

Ingredient Differences:

* Mayonnaise: Primarily eggs, oil, vinegar, and salt.
* Miracle Whip: Mayonnaise as a base, along with sugar, mustard, paprika, vinegar, and spices.

Texture Differences:

* Mayonnaise: Typically thicker and creamier due to the higher egg yolk content.
* Miracle Whip: Generally thinner and runnier due to the added ingredients, particularly the sugar.

Flavor Differences:

* Mayonnaise: More neutral flavor, primarily from the eggs and oil.
* Miracle Whip: Tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor due to the sugar, mustard, paprika, and spices.

Use Differences:

* Mayonnaise: Often used as a spread for sandwiches, a dip for vegetables, and a base for other sauces.
* Miracle Whip: More often used as a dressing for salads, a spread for sandwiches, and a topping for various dishes.

So, while both mayonnaise and Miracle Whip are emulsions, they have distinct differences in their ingredients, textures, flavors, and uses. Whether you prefer the classic creaminess of mayonnaise or the tangy sweetness of Miracle Whip, both are delicious condiments that can enhance any meal.

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And though Kraft keeps Miracle Whip's exact oil content a secret, the company confirms that it is too low to meet the mayo standard. What makes it different: While it contains mayo's key ingredients (egg, soybean oil, vinegar, water), Miracle Whip sets itself apart with a sweet, spicy flavor that some folks prefer.read more >>