Arachidonic acid

Arachidonic acid (CAS 506-32-1, C20:4(n-6)) is a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid occurring naturally in animal-derived phospholipids. It carries no assigned E-code and is commercially available under abbreviated designations including ARA and AA. It is distinct from other C20 fatty acids by its four methylene-interrupted double bonds.

In personal care formulations, ARA functions as a skin-conditioning emollient by integrating into the lipid barrier and supporting membrane fluidity. In food and nutrition applications, it serves as a bioactive flavorant and emulsification agent, where its unsaturated chain structure aids in dispersing lipid phases within aqueous matrices. Pharmaceutical manufacturers also use it as a biochemical reference compound and active precursor in eicosanoid research.

Arachidonic acid is supplied as a liquid oil in analytical, food-grade, and pharmaceutical-grade specifications, with compliance available against FCC and Ph.Eur. standards. The substance is registered under REACH and classified under HS code 29161900. Packaging typically ranges from small amber glass containers to bulk quantities for industrial procurement.