What Is Linoelaidic Acid (18:2 t,t) & What Foods Can I Find It In?

3D-model of Linolelaidic acid (18:2 t,t) (src)

Are you curious about Linoelaidic acid? It's a unique polyunsaturated trans-fatty acid (TFA) with fascinating properties. Let's dive into what makes it special:

Linoelaidic acid is a trans-isomer of linoleic acid and belongs to the class of organic compounds known as linoleic acids and derivatives.

It plays a significant role in various foods, and you'll often find it in industrially hydrogenated plant oils.

Table of Contents

Two Trans Double Bonds

Linoelaidic acid is a branched fatty acid derived from linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid found in various edible oils.

What sets it apart are its two trans double bonds at positions 9 and 12, making it a unique player in the world of fats. (source )

This fascinating fatty acid isn't just a dietary component; it's also crucial for mammalian nutrition, playing a key role in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins and cell membranes. (source )

Linoelaidic Acid and Heart Health

Linoelaidic acid is a nonconjugated trans fatty acid linked to heart diseases, making it a subject of interest in the field of nutrition.

While you won't typically find trans fatty acids in raw food oils, they are quite common in partially hydrogenated oils, which are widely used in the food industry.

These trans fatty acids are produced during the industrial hydrogenation of plant oils. (source )

Versatile Uses of Linoelaidic Acid

Linoelaidic acid isn't just a curious component of our diets; it has practical applications in the manufacturing of various foods and pharmaceutical products.

For instance, it's a vital building block in the synthesis of vitamin D3, retinoids, and corticosteroids. Additionally, it serves as a precursor to numerous naturally occurring compounds prized in the cosmetic and food industry.

Where to Find Linoelaidic Acid (18:2 t,t)

Linoelaidic Acid (18:2 t,t) can be found mainly in fats and oils, as well as in beef, pork, sausage, and luncheon meat products. Here are some examples of food sources:

Explore More with Our Nutrition Tool

For an in-depth look at the foods containing Linoelaidic Acid (18:2 t,t) and other essential nutrients, check out our nutrition tool. We offer regularly updated top-ranked lists of foods for over 200+ nutrients. If you're curious about the foods that contain the most Linoelaidic Acid, this tool is your guide to discovering nutritional insights. Explore the top-ranked list of foods that contain Linoelaidic Acid (18:2 t,t).

Sara Niemelä

co-founder Care Omnia, Head Content Creator

Author Image of Sara Niemelä

Nutrition is my passion. I've spent thousands upon thousands of hours reading, analyzing, categorizing and comparing research studies.

I’m a wife and a mother of three. I enjoy the outdoors, cooking, and spending time with my family.