What Is Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6) & What Foods Can I Find It In?

Linoleic acid, 18:2 n-6, is classified as a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid.

It is essential, meaning that the consumption of this fatty acid is vital for our health and must be obtained by our diet.

Linoleic acid is found in large quantities in vegetable oils, particularly in corn, soybean, sunflower, safflower, and cottonseed oils.

Linoleic Acid Is Essential

Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated fatty acid and an omega-6 fatty acid. (source ◳)

It’s essential functions in maintaining the epidermal water barrier of the skin. (source ◳)

Linoleic acid is also essential for the synthesis of various hormones. (source ◳)

Linoleic Acid Is Common

Linoleic acid is the most highly consumed polyunsaturated fat in our diet. Like all fatty acids, it can be a source of energy. (source ◳)

The major dietary sources of linoleic acid are vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, meats, and eggs. (source ◳)

Vegetable oils are widely consumed in the Western diet. Linoleic acid can be present in these commercial oils at levels >50%. (source ◳)

Foods You Can Find Linoleic Acid In

You find linoleic acid mostly in and fats and oil products.

Examples of food sources include

• Safflower Oil
• Grapeseed Oil
• Sunflower Oil
• Poppyseed Oil
• Soybean & Sunflower Oil
• Soy Oil
• Wheat Germ Oil

Foods in our nutrition tool

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If you are interested in what foods contain the most linoleic acid, we recommend you visit our tool.

Here's our top ranked list of foods that contain Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6).