What Is Lauric Acid (12:0) & What Foods Can I Find It In?

Lauric acid, 12:0, also known as dodecanoic acid, is a saturated medium-chain fatty acid that is relatively uncommon.

Lauric acid is inexpensive, has a long shelf-life, and classifies as non-toxic.

So it’s used mainly for the production of soaps and cosmetics.

Lauric acid is mostly found in coconut, but can also be found in animal products, such as meat, dairy, and egg yolk.

Lauric Acid Is Important

Lauric acid is an important component of the cell membrane and a major constituent of wool and fats.

One of the main sources of lauric acid is coconut oil, which is obtained by cracking the kernel of the coconut.

Properties Of Lauric Acid

Lauric acid is a saturated fatty acid. It has many properties of medium-chain fatty acids. It is a bright white, powdery solid with a faint odor of bay oil or soap. (source ◳)

Lauric acid has strong bactericidal properties and is believed to have antimicrobial properties. (source ◳)

Lauric acid is a substance or active part that kills or slows the growth of bacteria. (source ◳)

Risks With Lauric Acid

Lauric acid has been found to cause a moderate risk of coronary heart disease. (source ◳)

Lauric acid can be slightly irritating to mucous membranes. But it’s toxicity is so low that it’s used in many soaps and shampoos. (source)

Foods You Can Find Lauric Acid (12:0) In

You find Lauric Acid (12:0) mostly in fats and oils, nuts and seeds, and sweets products.

Examples of food sources include

• Palm Kernel Oil
• Coconut Oil
• Babassu Oil
• Shortening Confectionery
• Coconut Meat
• Palm & Palm Kernel Oil
• Carob

Foods in our nutrition tool

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If you are interested in what foods contain the most Lauric Acid (12:0) we recommend you visit our tool.

Here's our top-ranked list of foods that contain Lauric Acid (12:0).