Linoleic acid

Linoleic acid (CAS 60-33-3), also known as telfairic acid, is an 18-carbon polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid derived primarily from vegetable oils. Approved under FEMA 3380, it functions as an emulsifier and flavoring agent. In food production, it acts as an acidulant and flavoring component, contributing to the characteristic taste profiles of fats and oils. Personal care formulators incorporate it into skin creams and serums to support emulsion stability.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as a functional excipient in lipid-based drug delivery systems. Its emulsification properties improve the bioavailability of poorly soluble active ingredients in various medical formulations. In industrial oleochemical processing, it serves as a feedstock for the production of conjugated linoleic acid and other derivative compounds. It is also utilized as a pH regulator across several manufacturing sectors.

The product is supplied as a pale yellow to amber liquid, typically in bulk or drummed formats suited to industrial processing volumes. It is available in food-grade and technical-grade specifications for global distribution. Purity levels commonly range from 60% to above 99% depending on the intended application. High-purity grades meeting USP or Ph.Eur. standards are available for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical use.