Caprylic acid

Caprylic acid (CAS 124-07-2), also known as octylic acid, is a saturated C8 fatty acid derived primarily from coconut and palm kernel oil.

Where is Caprylic acid used?

• Food: flavoring agent and acidulant in dairy, baked goods and beverages (FEMA 2799)
• Pharmaceutical: excipient and stabilizer in lipid-based drug delivery systems
• Personal care: emulsion stability and conditioning in skin creams and hair products
• Metalworking and lubricants: feedstock for ester-based lubricants and corrosion inhibitors
• It functions as a pH regulator, emulsifier and antimicrobial agent in manufacturing.
• Antimicrobial agent on food-contact surfaces in dairy equipment, food processing equipment, and beer, wine and beverage production facilities.
• Component of medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) intended mainly for sports and postoperative nutrition.
• Manufacture of soaps.
• Production of esters used in perfumery and in the manufacture of paints.

Regulatory status

• Registered as an active substance with herbicide and fungicide uses.

Frequently asked questions about Caprylic acid

What are the solubility characteristics of caprylic acid in different solvents?

It dissolves well in nonpolar solvents such as hexane or diethyl ether, while being poorly soluble in water.

What color variations can be expected in caprylic acid?

Caprylic acid ranges in color from colorless to pale yellow.

In which applications is caprylic acid combined with other fatty acids?

Caprylic acid is one of the medium chain fatty acids combined with behenic acid to produce low-calorie triglycerides.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.