Conjugated linoleic acid

Conjugated linoleic acid (CAS 2420-56-6), commonly abbreviated as CLA, is a naturally occurring fatty acid isomer produced commercially for use across food, feed, and pharmaceutical applications. The specific isomer 10,12-CLA is the primary form of commercial interest, distinguishing it from the broader CLA family. It functions as a bioactive lipid ingredient targeting body composition and immune modulation.

In functional food and dietary supplement manufacturing, 10,12-CLA is incorporated into softgel capsules, fortified dairy products, and sports nutrition formulations targeting fat metabolism support. Animal feed producers use it as a performance additive in ruminant and swine diets to influence milk fat composition and lean mass ratios. It is also used in lipid-based delivery systems.

Pharmaceutical and nutraceutical formulators source it as an active ingredient where antioxidant stabilization is required. Food manufacturers apply it in fat blends and emulsified products. CLA is supplied as a free fatty acid oil, typically in liquid form at room temperature, and as triglyceride or glyceride-esterified variants depending on specific application requirements.

Standard commercial grades include food-grade and feed-grade specifications, with some producers offering material compliant with USP or FCC standards for high-purity applications. Bulk supply is available in drums and IBCs, with isomer purity and total CLA content specified on certificates of analysis to ensure consistent quality for industrial manufacturing processes.