What Is a Mayonnaise Candle
A mayonnaise candle is a simple emergency light made by inserting a wick into a jar of mayonnaise. The oil and emulsifiers in mayonnaise can burn slowly, producing a small flame and light similar to a tealight.
How a Mayonnaise Candle Works
The fats in mayonnaise act as fuel. When the wick is lit, heat melts the oil near the flame, drawing it up the wick by capillary action. The flame burns until the mayonnaise is consumed or the fuel is exhausted.
When to Use a Mayonnaise Candle
People use mayonnaise candles during power outages, camping trips, or other situations where regular candles or lights are unavailable. They are not meant for everyday use and should always be handled with basic fire safety.
For more on emergency lighting and survival tips, see Ready.gov Emergency Supplies.
