How do I know if my Cains products are fresh?

Cains mayonnaise, tartar sauce and sandwich spread items are
coded with a "Best When Used by Date" which is printed on either the label or on the glass just above the label. To ensure the freshest tasting product we recommend usage by this date. If stored under proper conditions (i.e. refrigeration), the product is fine to use after this date, although the product is past its peak flavor. All of Cains salad dressings are coded with a "Best when Purchased by Date". The product can be consumed a couple of months after this, however it is at the end of its shelf life and past its peak flavor.

How should I store Cains products?

Cains retail products can be stored in the cupboard until opened, unless otherwise stated on the package. Once opened, we recommend refrigeration to maintain peak flavor. Products should not be exposed to high temperatures, which will cause the product to lose its fresh flavor more rapidly. Exposure to freezing temperatures is not recommended and may cause the product to separate and develop an unusual texture.

Are Cains products Gluten free?

Many of our products are gluten free, however certain ingredients are often cause for concern. Our distilled vinegar, and our oils (soybean and canola) are gluten free, as are all of our products containing starch. Our relish, which we use in Thousand Island dressing and our tartar sauces, is also gluten free. Most of Cains salad dressings are gluten free, except for those containing soy sauce or wheat. We recommend you read the ingredient statements on the label for any ingredient which may be of concern. Specific product questions should be directed to our technical department.her

Where are Cains products sold?e Cains products sold?

Cains products are distributed in all major supermarkets throughout New England and in the Upstate New York area. Although Cains would like to have each of the items we manufacture in all supermarkets, it is up to the individual chain stores to decide which items and sizes they carry. That is why you may go to one supermarket and find a particular salad dressing flavor offered, while at a neighboring supermarket it is not available.

I moved out of the area and can no longer purchase my favorite Cains product in the supermarkets in my area. Is there a way I can order Cains products direct?

Yes, you can order Cains products directly from us through our Customer Service Department at 800-225-0601. Products must be ordered by the case and payment is required prior to shipment.

Does mayonnaise cause food poisoning?

No. Commercial mayonnaise and mayonnaise dressings are prepared using pasteurized eggs that are free of Salmonella and other types of bacteria. Ingredients in the product such as vinegar and lemon juice provide a high acid environment, which slows or prohibits entirely the growth of these types of bacteria. Salt, another ingredient in commercial mayonnaise also acts to quell the growth of bacteria. Many of the foods used with mayonnaise such as tuna, ham, chicken and potatoes are more prone to bacterial contamination than mayonnaise itself. When preparing these foods, it is important to use proper food handling and storage procedures.

Why did I think mayonnaise was a cause for food poisoning?

This is a myth that was started years ago when people made homemade mayonnaise. Homemade mayonnaise was prepared using unpasteurized eggs which today we know can be contaminated with Salmonella bacteria. Also, homemade formulas, quite often did not use the proper levels of salt and vinegar to combat bacterial growth. With the introduction of commercial mayonnaise, consumers have a safe alternative to homemade formulas.

If I forget to refrigerate my mayonnaise for a period of time must I dispose of it?

From a food safety standpoint, it is perfectly fine to keep commercial mayonnaise once opened, stored at room temperature. However, from a quality standpoint, mayonnaise retains its flavor best when stored in the refrigerator once opened. Therefore, we recommend that once opened the product is stored in the refrigerator to maintain its best flavor.