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Miracle Whip
Miracle Whip
from Wikipedia
Miracle Whip
Product typeCondiment
OwnerKraft Heinz
Introduced1933; 92 years ago (1933)
Previous ownersKraft Foods, Inc.

Miracle Whip is a condiment manufactured by Kraft Heinz and sold throughout the United States and Canada. It is also sold by Mondelēz International (formerly also Kraft Foods) as "Miracel Whip" throughout Germany.[1] It was developed as a less expensive alternative to mayonnaise in 1933.[2]

History

[edit]

Launched in 1933 at the World’s Fair in Chicago, Miracle Whip was promoted as a cheaper alternative to mayonnaise during the Great Depression. Miracle Whip soon became a success as a condiment for fruits, vegetables, and salads.[3] Its success was bolstered by Kraft's advertising campaign, which included sponsorship of a series of two-hour radio programs. At the end of its introductory period, Miracle Whip was outselling all mayonnaise brands.[citation needed]

According to Kraft's archivist, Becky Haglund Tousey, Kraft developed the product in-house, using a patented "emulsifying machine", invented by Charles Chapman, to create a product that blended mayonnaise and less expensive boiled dressing[4] or salad dressing spread. The machine, dubbed "Miracle Whip" by Chapman, ensured that the ingredients, including more than 20 spices, were thoroughly blended.[5]

Another story claims that Miracle Whip was invented in Salem, Illinois, at Max Crosset's Cafe, where it was called "Max Crossett's X-tra Fine Salad Dressing", and that Crosset sold it to Kraft Foods in 1931 for $300[6] (equivalent to $6,200 in 2024). While stating that Kraft did buy many salad dressings, Tousey disputes the claim that X-tra Fine was Miracle Whip.[5]

Since 1972, Miracle Whip has been sold as Miracel Whip in Germany.[1] It was formerly produced by Kraft Foods, and is now made by Mondelēz International, in Bad Fallingbostel.[7]

Ingredients and nutrition

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Miracle Whip is made from water, soybean oil, high-fructose corn syrup, vinegar, modified corn starch, eggs, salt, natural flavor, mustard flour, potassium sorbate, spice, and dried garlic.[8] The original Miracle Whip is produced using less oil than mayonnaise, thus has around half of the calories. Due to added corn syrup it is also sweeter compared to mayonnaise.[9]

Advertising

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1948 advertisement

Six Flags announced a new partnership with the Miracle Whip brand in 2009.[10]

In the late 2000s and early 2010s, Miracle Whip attempted to appeal to younger audiences, with Miracle Whip advertising featuring prominently in the Electronic Arts video game Skate 3, including a dedicated trick, contest, and an achievement called Don't Be So Mayo.[11] Kraft paid Lady Gaga to include Miracle Whip in the music video for her song "Telephone".[12] Television adverts described Miracle Whip as an alternative to "real boring" mayonnaise.[13] Criticism by Stephen Colbert led to Miracle Whip buying ad time on his show, The Colbert Report, and attacking Colbert for being a "mayo lover".[14] This also included publishing an open letter stating the attack was "raising hell, man".[15] Eventually, this advertising was dropped.[citation needed]

In 2018, the town of Mayo, Florida, temporarily changed its name to Miracle Whip as a promotional stunt.[16]

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Miracle Whip is a tangy and produced by , characterized by its creamy texture, zesty flavor from a blend of spices, and lower fat content compared to traditional —specifically, 64% less fat per serving. Developed in 1933 during the as an economical alternative to , it combines elements of mayo and with added sweeteners and seasonings for a distinctive "zippy" taste that distinguishes it from plain . Kraft debuted Miracle Whip at the International Exposition ( ) in 1933, where it quickly gained popularity due to its affordability and innovative production using a new emulsifying machine that allowed for efficient large-scale manufacturing. According to a local legend from , the recipe originated from inventor Max Crosset, whose "X-tra Fine " was acquired by Kraft in 1931 for $300 and refined into Miracle Whip to evoke its seemingly magical blend and spreadability. By the end of , it had become one of the best-selling dressings in the United States, reflecting consumer demand for versatile, budget-friendly options during economic hardship. Key ingredients in Miracle Whip include water, , , , modified cornstarch, , salt, natural flavors, mustard flour, and , which contribute to its smooth consistency and sweet-tangy profile without meeting the U.S. FDA's strict criteria for (due to the absence of sufficient yolk and oil ratios). Widely used in sandwiches, salads, dips, and recipes, it remains a staple in American households, with ongoing innovations like transitions to recycled materials.

Overview

Description and Characteristics

Miracle Whip is a creamy, tangy manufactured by , positioned as a versatile spread for enhancing sandwiches, salads, and dips with its distinctive zesty flavor. Developed as a Depression-era in , it offers an affordable alternative to traditional while maintaining a similar emulsified base. The product features a smooth, creamy texture and a pale color, achieved through its emulsified formulation, which provides a spreadable consistency ideal for both cold and cooked applications. Its flavor profile combines a rich, creamy with bold sweet-tangy notes, delivering a unique zest that sets it apart from plain . Packaged in shelf-stable plastic jars ranging from 12 to 48 ounces, with recent innovations including a transition to 100% recycled content, Miracle Whip is designed for convenient storage and easy portioning in home kitchens. In , Miracle Whip is commonly used to moisten sandwiches by spreading it on bread for turkey clubs or ham melts, serving as a base for creamy potato and salads, and incorporating into such as deviled eggs or for added moisture and tang. Miracle Whip is produced through an emulsification process in large-scale facilities operated by , where oil and water-based components are blended to create a stable, uniform product. This method ensures consistent quality and affordability, enabling widespread distribution since its inception.

Differences from Mayonnaise

Miracle Whip differs from traditional primarily in its formulation, which incorporates less and more along with emulsifiers, resulting in a lighter, foamier texture compared to mayonnaise's denser, oil-based . While mayonnaise must contain at least 65% edible by weight to meet U.S. (FDA) standards, Miracle Whip falls below this threshold, relying instead on a blend including , , , and additional stabilizers for its consistency. In terms of flavor, Miracle Whip is sweeter and tangier than mayonnaise, owing to the inclusion of sugar—often high-fructose corn syrup—and vinegar, which contrast with mayonnaise's neutral, savory profile derived mainly from egg yolks and oil. This addition of spices and mustard further imparts a spicier note to Miracle Whip, setting it apart from the richer, egg-forward taste of standard mayonnaise. Nutritionally, Miracle Whip offers lower and content, with approximately 40 s and 3.5 grams of per serving, compared to mayonnaise's typical 90 s and 10 grams of per ; however, it contains significantly more , around 2 grams per serving versus mayonnaise's 0 grams. This makes Miracle Whip a lower- option for -restricted diets but less suitable for those monitoring intake, as its content is up to 10 times higher due to the added sweeteners. Culinary uses highlight these distinctions, with Miracle Whip's sweetness and lighter body suiting applications like fruit salads, vegetable dips, or creamy , whereas mayonnaise's richer emulsion is preferred for savory preparations such as , , or egg salads requiring a more substantial . Legally, in the United States, Miracle Whip is classified as a "salad dressing" rather than under FDA regulations, as its oil content is below the 65% minimum required for the latter, allowing it to avoid the stricter compositional standards for while still functioning as a versatile .

History

Origins and Development

Miracle Whip was invented in 1933 by as a cost-effective alternative to during the height of the , when economic constraints demanded affordable options for American households. The product's origins trace back to a recipe purchased by Kraft in from Max Crossett, owner of a cafe in , where it was known as "X-tra Fine " and sold for $300; Crossett is credited with the initial formulation, which Kraft then refined at its laboratory in . This development occurred amid widespread financial hardship, with rates exceeding 25% and severely limited, prompting manufacturers to innovate with lower-cost ingredients to maintain market accessibility. The development process involved extensive experimentation at Kraft's facility, where scientists blended a traditional base—primarily eggs, oil, and —with elements of cheaper boiled , such as starch-based thickeners and additional water to significantly cut oil usage and production expenses. This hybrid approach reduced reliance on expensive , which was a major cost driver for , while ensuring the mixture remained stable, spreadable, and palatable through rigorous testing for texture, , and flavor balance. The goal was to create a versatile that appealed to budget-conscious families without sacrificing usability in sandwiches, salads, or other dishes, positioning it as an economical staple during the era's . The name "Miracle Whip" originated from the innovative emulsification technology employed in its production, specifically a patented high-speed whipping machine that rapidly combined the ingredients into a smooth, consistent far quicker than traditional methods. This "miraculous" device not only accelerated —allowing for higher output at lower costs—but also enhanced the product's longevity by improving ingredient integration and reducing separation risks. Initial jars were priced affordably to reflect this economic focus, with small sizes retailing for around 10 cents to encourage widespread adoption among Depression-era consumers.

Commercial Launch and Growth

Miracle Whip made its commercial debut at the 1933 International Exposition in , where introduced it as an affordable alternative to during the . The product was manufactured using a patented emulsifying machine invented by Charles Chapman, which was showcased at the fair and earned the nickname "Miracle Whip Machine" for its efficient blending process. This launch capitalized on the economic pressures of the era, positioning the dressing as a versatile, cost-effective option for consumers. The introduction proved highly successful, with Miracle Whip achieving rapid nationwide distribution by 1934 and becoming the best-selling salad dressing in the United States within its first year. Kraft had acquired the foundational recipe from Max Crossett's Cafe in Salem, Illinois, in 1931, integrating it into their production ahead of the launch. Within six months of its debut, it had become the nation's best-selling salad dressing, reflecting strong consumer demand for its tangy flavor and lower price point compared to traditional mayonnaise. During , wartime rationing of eggs and oils further propelled Miracle Whip's growth, as its formula required fewer of these scarce resources than , making it a practical substitute in households and recipes. ingredient shortages in the late prompted minor formula adjustments to maintain availability and quality, ensuring continued production scaling that reached tens of millions of jars annually by the mid-20th century. The brand experienced steady expansion through corporate developments, including Kraft's merger with Heinz in 2015 to form The Company, which enhanced its distribution and production capabilities. Following the merger, the brand navigated challenges including 's significant asset writedowns in 2019 but continued to maintain substantial market share in the U.S. category. As of 2010, annual sales exceeded $150 million.

Composition

Ingredients

Miracle Whip's standard formula is composed primarily of , which forms the base and contributes to its lighter consistency compared to denser emulsions; , serving as the main emulsified fat source; , providing acidity and tanginess; , adding the characteristic sweetness; modified food , acting as a thickener to enhance ; eggs, functioning as a key emulsifier; and salt, for basic seasoning. Emulsifiers such as egg yolks, along with stabilizers like , cellulose gum, and cellulose gel, work together to create a foam structure, preventing separation and ensuring a smooth spreadable texture, while the imparts the signature sweet profile that distinguishes it from unsweetened emulsions. Additional additives include mustard flour, which adds a subtle spicy note to the flavor; , contributing a mild yellow-orange color; and preservatives like , which extend the unopened to up to 6 months by inhibiting mold and growth. Under U.S. regulations, Miracle Whip does not meet the standards for (21 CFR 169.140, requiring at least 65% oil by weight and specific levels) or standard (21 CFR 169.150, requiring at least 30% oil by weight and equivalent solids). Instead, due to its lower oil content of approximately 23% by weight, it is classified as a "mayonnaise-type dressing" that substitutes for . Potential concerns regarding genetically modified organisms arise from its corn- and soy-derived components, such as and , which are commonly sourced from GMO crops in the U.S.

Nutrition and Health Aspects

A standard one-tablespoon (15 g) serving of Miracle Whip Original Dressing provides approximately 40 calories, 3.5 g of total fat (primarily unsaturated from , with 0.5 g ), 2.5 g of carbohydrates (including 2 g of added sugars), 105 mg of sodium, and 0 g of protein, along with trace amounts of derived from the oil component. Compared to traditional , Miracle Whip offers health advantages for those monitoring fat intake, containing about 65% less total fat (3.5 g vs. 10 g) and 67% less (0.5 g vs. 1.5 g) per serving, which may support reduced-fat diets while providing monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats from that align with heart-healthy eating patterns. The current formulation is also free of trans fats, addressing previous concerns about partially hydrogenated oils in processed condiments. However, the inclusion of 2 g of added sugars per serving raises concerns for overall dietary sugar consumption, as excessive intake is linked to increased risks of and according to guidelines from health authorities. Additionally, it contains common allergens such as eggs and soy, which can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals, and its 105 mg of sodium per serving may contribute to elevated in those on low-sodium diets. As a processed , Miracle Whip has faced criticism for its additive profile, including modified cornstarch and preservatives, which some nutrition experts associate with broader issues in ultra-processed diets like and metabolic disruption. Miracle Whip is not suitable for ketogenic diets due to its carbohydrate and sugar content, which exceeds the strict limits typically under 5 g net carbs per serving for keto compliance. The standard product is also not vegan, given its egg content, though reduced-fat variants maintain similar nutritional trade-offs. In comparisons, it delivers about 50% fewer calories than regular , making it a lighter option for calorie-conscious consumers without sacrificing spreadability.

Varieties and Availability

Product Variants

Miracle Whip offers a variant designed for consumers seeking reduced and options while preserving its signature tangy flavor. This version contains 50% less and 50% fewer calories than the original, providing 20 calories per 1-tablespoon serving. A fat-free , known as Miracle Whip Free, was launched in 1991 to align with the growing demand for no-fat products during the trend of the era. This version relied on alternative ingredients like gums and starches to achieve creaminess without added fats, targeting health-conscious eaters, though it was discontinued as Kraft shifted focus to updated low-fat offerings. A fat-free option remains available in select international markets, such as (as of 2025), where it features 64% less fat than traditional . In addition to dietary variants, Miracle Whip has seen limited flavored editions over the years, though these have been primarily tested in regional or promotional contexts rather than as permanent lines. Packaging innovations have enhanced the product's usability and sustainability. Squeeze bottles were introduced in 1998 to allow easier dispensing and reduce mess during application, particularly for sandwiches and salads. Portion-control packets, available in single-serve formats, cater to foodservice and on-the-go needs. More recently, in 2024, transitioned U.S. packaging for Miracle Whip to 100% recycled PET bottles, supporting eco-friendly initiatives by reducing virgin plastic use.

International Distribution

Miracle Whip is primarily distributed in through , with widespread availability in the United States and , where it is manufactured locally, including facilities in . In , it is sold through major retailers like under the Kraft brand, often in standard 443 ml jars. Limited exports reach via specialty importers such as USA Foods, typically sourcing from Canadian production. In parts of , distribution is handled by Mondelēz International, with production and sales in countries like . The product entered the Canadian market shortly after its U.S. launch, becoming a staple and eventually produced domestically to meet demand. Expansion to occurred in subsequent decades, with consistent availability in by the late through Kraft's regional networks. In , formal distribution began in 1972 with the introduction of Miracel Whip in , manufactured by Mondelēz in to comply with local standards. Current availability spans select markets in over a dozen countries, primarily through direct operations in and partnerships elsewhere, though penetration remains low in , where it is mostly accessible via imports in urban areas of , , and . Adaptations for international markets include local reformulations to align with regional tastes and regulations. In the , it is often marketed as a "sandwich spread", available through importers like Amazon . The German Miracel Whip variant features a 23% content and is positioned as a lighter alternative, produced on-site to meet and additive guidelines. These changes ensure compliance with stricter European labeling rules, which prohibit calling it "" due to its lower oil content below 65%. Challenges to broader international distribution include lower brand recognition outside , where competitors like Hellmann's dominate, and logistical hurdles for exports. In , where traditional variants prevail, Miracle Whip sees minimal official presence beyond expat-focused imports. During the 2020s inflationary period, general disruptions affected global food exports, indirectly impacting availability in import-dependent markets like , though no product-specific shortages were reported.

Marketing

Advertising Campaigns

Miracle Whip's advertising began with its launch at the 1933 World's Fair under the slogan "Salad Miracles with ." These early efforts emphasized the product's affordability and versatility as a alternative during the . In the , Miracle Whip transitioned to television advertising. By the , TV spots showcased the product's use in family meals. The and marked a peak in television presence, with campaigns highlighting Miracle Whip's distinctive flavor profile through the recurring "A sandwich just isn't a sandwich without the tangy zip of Miracle Whip," used in commercials depicting diverse uses from burgers to hot dogs. The had been in use for over 15 years by 1998. Entering the , advertising shifted toward versatility with s like "We will not tone it down" in , embracing the product's polarizing appeal in TV and online spots that encouraged consumers to declare their love or hate for its bold taste. The 2012 "Keep an open mouth" campaign extended this to digital platforms, including videos and social media, promoting open-mindedness toward the dressing's "tangy zip" in recipes beyond sandwiches. Following the 2015 Kraft Heinz merger, advertising evolved to emphasize digital channels, including targeting younger consumers. Annual media spend reached around $15 million in 2009.

Branding and Promotions

The "Miracle Whip" was filed on August 1, 1933, covering and salad spread, and has remained a protected mark under ownership following the 2015 merger with H.J. Heinz Company. Kraft has actively defended the against unauthorized or generic uses, including a 1976 assertion of its exclusive rights against Henri’s Foods in response to potential infringement with the "Yogowhip" mark on products. Miracle Whip's brand identity has evolved through and refreshes to maintain . In , the and were redesigned for a cleaner, more classic appearance, eliminating previous swirls and overly playful elements to emphasize the product's heritage. This was followed in 2010 by a simplified "MW" logo, which reads the same upside down, coinciding with the shift to (PET) plastic jars for improved usability. The brand has pursued partnerships to extend its reach beyond retail. In 2009, Miracle Whip collaborated with on co-branded marketing, including national on-pack promotions tied to park experiences reaching over 20 million consumers. In 2017, it sponsored the Splash, an all-female senior basketball team over age 80, marking the group's first endorsement deal and highlighting themes of vitality and flavor. Additionally, Kraft has integrated the product into recipe resources, such as the Kraft Miracle Whip Cookbook, which features over 200 dishes using the dressing in appetizers, salads, and entrees. Promotions have focused on value and engagement, particularly during economic challenges. Amid the 2008-2009 , Kraft repositioned Miracle Whip as an affordable alternative in adjusted marketing strategies to appeal to budget-conscious consumers. drives have supported this, including $1-off offers distributed in the early 2010s to drive trial and sales. In the 2020s, has incorporated digital loyalty elements through programs like TasteVIP, offering subscribers exclusive recipes, product previews, and experiences tied to brands including Miracle Whip. As of 2025, the brand continues to leverage for engagement, with references to new ad efforts promoting its bold flavor.

Reception and Cultural Significance

Consumer Opinions and Debates

Miracle Whip has long been regarded as one of America's most divisive condiments, eliciting strong reactions from consumers who either adore its tangy, slightly sweet profile or revile it as an inferior imitation of traditional . Fans often highlight its zesty flavor and lighter texture as ideal for sandwiches and salads, while detractors frequently dismiss it as "fake mayo" due to its distinct composition and taste. This polarization is evident in public discourse, where preferences split households and spark heated discussions, with no clear consensus emerging from various informal polls and consumer feedback. Regional preferences further underscore the product's uneven appeal across the United States, with a particularly strong foothold in the Midwest, where it commands significant loyalty among local consumers. In some Midwestern states, Miracle Whip enjoys higher usage rates compared to coastal areas, where artisanal and premium mayonnaise varieties dominate due to preferences for richer, less sweetened options. This geographic divide aligns with broader culinary traditions, as Midwestern households have historically incorporated it more readily into everyday meals. Additionally, a generational gap exists, with older consumers demonstrating greater loyalty, often stemming from childhood familiarity, while younger demographics show less attachment amid rising interest in specialty condiments. Ongoing debates surrounding Miracle Whip center on its authenticity, nutritional profile, and . Purists argue it falls short of "real" standards set by the FDA, which requires higher content and excludes added prominent in Miracle Whip, leading to claims that it is more akin to a than a true mayo. discussions often revolve around the trade-off between its lower content—appealing to those monitoring calories—and higher levels, which some view as less favorable compared to full-fat alternatives, though its overall caloric remains moderate. controversies include informal "bans" in certain social or culinary contexts, such as upscale gatherings or specific sandwich recipes, where its sweetness is deemed disruptive to traditional flavors. Despite these debates, Miracle Whip maintains a steady position in the U.S. market, holding a significant but minority share within the and whipped dressing segment (around 6% as of 2024 estimates), with consistent sales reflecting enduring demand particularly in heartland regions even as premium competitors proliferate.

In Media and Culture

Miracle Whip has made notable appearances in television and film, often serving as a punchline or symbol of everyday American quirks. In the 2022 episode "Waterworks" of , Kim Wexler's new boyfriend substitutes Miracle Whip for in a , illustrating the banalities of her post-Albuquerque life and sparking online discussions about the condiment's role in domestic normalcy. Similarly, in the 2003 parody film , a character quips about applying Miracle Whip to , embedding it in comedic takes on suburban routines. The condiment's polarizing status has fueled viral trends on platforms throughout the 2010s and , particularly through taste test challenges comparing it to traditional . These videos, which highlight differences in texture, sweetness, and tanginess, have generated widespread engagement, with social conversations about Miracle Whip decreasing by about 30% year-over-year as of 2025 but still prominent in debates. In 2021, the topic trended on as an subject, prompting users to share recipes, preferences, and humorous defenses, amassing thousands of posts in a single day. Memes frequently portray it as a "" or regional divider, especially in the American Midwest and , reinforcing its image as a love-it-or-hate-it staple. Recent 2025 discussions include complaints about rising prices, further fueling online debates. Symbolically, Miracle Whip embodies mid-20th-century American processed food culture, evoking nostalgia for economical Depression-era innovations while critiquing industrial additives like . It has been referenced in essays and cultural analyses as a marker of convenience, appearing in discussions of traditions and family recipes that blend affordability with bold flavor. In music, Kraft sponsored a charity single titled "Open Mouth Anthem" featuring artists like and Tiffany, which playfully addressed anti-Miracle Whip sentiment through lyrics urging acceptance of its unique profile. In the 2020s, Miracle Whip experienced a cultural resurgence tied to retro , with its origins inspiring podcasts to explore authenticity debates amid rising interest in vintage condiments. Episodes on shows like Are You Garbage? have dissected its merits versus , blending humor with reflections on generational tastes and processed heritage. This revival positions it as a touchstone for conversations on culinary evolution, distinct from its earlier promotional pushes.

References

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