Oils, Fats & Waxes
REACH
Arachidonic acid
CAS Number
506-32-1
EC Number
208-033-4
FEMA Number
FEMA 4679
Abbreviation
ARA
What is Arachidonic acid?
Arachidonic acid (CAS 506-32-1), commonly abbreviated as ARA, is a long-chain polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid sourced primarily from animal and fungal lipid fractions.
Where is Arachidonic acid used?
- Infant formula: added alongside DHA to meet regulatory standards for essential fatty acid content in early-life nutrition
- Pharmaceuticals: reference standard and active ingredient in prostaglandin and eicosanoid research, and in lipid-based drug delivery systems
- Sports nutrition and dietary supplements: support muscle protein synthesis pathways
- Cosmetics: skin barrier repair creams and serums for targeted fatty acid delivery to the stratum corneum
- It functions as a bioactive lipid ingredient in nutritional, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic formulations.
Commercial specifications
- Purity typically 40% to >98% depending on intended use
Other Names (Synonyms)
cis-Delta(5,8,11,14)-eicosatetraenoic acid|cis-D5,8,11,14-Eicosatetraenoic acid|cis-D5,8,11,14-Eicosatetraenoate|C20:4(n-6)|all-cis-5,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid|All-cis-5,8,11,14-Eicosatetraenoate|5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z-Eicosatetraenoic acid|5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z-Eicosatetraenoate|ARA
What are the physical properties of Arachidonic acid?
Melting Point -49.5 °C
Boiling Point 170 °C
Density 0.9247 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point >230 °F
Appearance liquid
Color colorless to light yellow
Form oil
Water Solubility PRACTICALLY INSOLUBLE
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.4872(lit.)
Log P 6.99
How is Arachidonic acid classified and handled safely? Learn More
Warning
GHS07· Irritant
Hazard Statements
H302 Harmful if swallowed
H312 Harmful in contact with skin
H315 Causes skin irritation
H319 Causes serious eye irritation
H332 Harmful if inhaled
H335 May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary Statements
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Arachidonic acid?
HS Code 29161900
UN Number 1170
Packing Group II
Storage Class 10 - Combustible liquids
WGK (Germany) 3