Is Marzetti Greek Vinaigrette Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist looking at the label, the classification of this dressing is straightforward. The formula relies on a standard oil-in-water emulsion, but it crosses the line into non-vegan territory due to specific flavoring agents. Here is why this product fails the vegan test.

The primary culprits are feta cheese and egg yolk. The feta cheese is derived from part-skim milk, making it a definitive dairy product. This is likely added to provide the creamy texture and salty tang associated with Greek salads. The egg yolk acts as a secondary emulsifier and flavor enhancer, contributing to the richness of the dressing. Additionally, the ingredient list notes that the dehydrated vegetables contain egg and milk, suggesting that cross-contact or inclusion of these allergens is present even in the solid components of the dressing.

It is also worth noting the preservatives used. Sodium benzoate and calcium disodium EDTA are included to extend shelf life and prevent the oils from going rancid. While these are synthetic and technically vegan, they are often markers of highly processed foods.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Marzetti Greek Vinaigrette is a calorie-dense condiment. The base is soybean oil, which is high in Omega-6 fatty acids, followed by a smaller amount of extra virgin olive oil. Because it is an oil-based dressing, the fat content is significant per serving.

There is also a notable amount of sugar listed in the ingredients. This adds empty calories and can spike blood sugar levels if consumed in large quantities. While it fits within the limits of a standard diet as a small garnish, it is not a 'free' food. If you are monitoring your sodium intake or saturated fat consumption, this dressing requires portion control.