Is Caesar salad safe if you have an egg allergy?
Avoid
Classic Caesar dressing is made with raw egg yolk as the emulsifier. Bottled versions also typically contain egg. Caesar salad should be treated as unsafe for egg allergies.
Why this verdict
- Traditional Caesar dressing is made tableside with raw egg yolk, anchovies, lemon, and olive oil.
- Bottled Caesar dressings list egg or egg yolk as an ingredient.
- Croutons are sometimes egg-washed before baking.
Watch out for
- Pre-dressed Caesar salads in delis or restaurants — egg is already emulsified into the dressing.
- Caesar-flavoured wraps or sandwiches where the dressing is applied during assembly.
Safer alternatives
- Green salad with olive oil and lemon — no egg
- Ask for Caesar salad dry with a vegan dressing on the side
- Niçoise salad without the egg portions
What to ask staff
- Is the Caesar dressing made with raw or cooked egg?
- Is there an egg-free dressing option?
- Are the croutons egg-washed?
Frequently asked
Does bottled Caesar dressing have egg?
Most bottled Caesar dressings (e.g. Ken's, Kraft) contain egg yolk. Check the allergen label — a few vegan brands produce egg-free Caesar-style dressings.