Hellmann

Hellmann is a surname of German origin. It is typically understood as a compound of elements that may mean “bright” (hell) and “man” (mann), though the exact origin can vary by family. As with many German names, it has dispersed beyond German-speaking regions through migration, and there are multiple spellings and regional variants.

Notable bearers of the surname have appeared across fields such as science, politics, and the arts. The name is found most commonly in Germany and in regions with German heritage, and among descendants of German emigrants in North America and elsewhere.

Hellmann's most widely known use outside of being a surname is the brand Hellmann's, a line of mayonnaise and related products. The brand originated in the United States, developed by Richard Hellmann in the early 20th century, and grew into a major international product. It became associated with blue ribbon labeling and, over time, was marketed under the Best Foods umbrella in several markets. In 2000, Best Foods and Hellmann's brands came under the ownership of Unilever, which operates Hellmann's in many markets worldwide. In some regions, the product is marketed as Best Foods rather than Hellmann's, while in others Hellmann's remains the standard brand name.