Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a salad consisting primarily of finely shredded raw cabbage (often with other shredded vegetables such as carrots and onions) mixed with a salad dressing, typically mayonnaise or a vinaigrette. It is a popular side dish in the UK, often served with barbecue, fried foods, or sandwiches.

Coleslaw itself is a prepared food item rather than an ingredient added for a specific function like sweetening or preserving. Manufacturers include it as a ready-to-eat component in dishes like wraps and sandwiches, providing a creamy texture and a fresh, slightly tangy flavour.

Coleslaw is not a food additive and therefore does not have an E-number or require authorisation on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. Its health implications depend on the ingredients used in its preparation, particularly the dressing. Mayonnaise-based dressings can be high in fat and calories. The NHS Eatwell Guide advises that foods high in fat, salt, or sugar should be eaten less often and in smaller amounts. Evidence on the health effects of typical dietary intakes of the individual vegetables and mayonnaise is mixed, with some studies suggesting benefits from vegetable consumption and others highlighting concerns about saturated fat content in mayonnaise.